Leader Staff
A dead crow found Aug. 28 tested positive for the West Nile virus, according to the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department.
It is the first Shawano County case of a dead bird carrying the virus since 2004. The last human case was reported in 2006.
West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes get the virus by feeding on infected birds.
The state Department of Health Services monitors the virus annually from May 1 through the end of mosquito season. There have been 25 confirmed cases of West Nile virus in Wisconsin this year.
Other area counties with confirmed cases of West Nile include Marathon, Langlade, Waupaca and Oconto.
County health department officials said area residents need to take precautions to reduce exposure and mosquito breeding grounds.
“The positive bird means that residents of Shawano and Menominee counties need to be more vigilant in their personal protective measures to prevent mosquito bites,” health officer Jaime Bodden said.
Health officials recommend the following:
• Limit time spent outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Apply insect repellent to exposed skin as well as clothing, as since mosquitoes may bite through clothing.
• Make sure window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquito entry.
• Properly dispose of items that hold water, such as tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or discarded tires.
• Clean roof gutters and downspouts for proper drainage.
• Turn over wheelbarrows, wading pools, boats and canoes when not in use.
• Change the water in birdbaths and pet dishes at least every three days.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs; drain water from pool covers.
• Trim tall grass, weeds and vines, since mosquitoes use these areas to rest during hot daylight hours.
• Landscape to prevent water from pooling in low-lying areas.
Health officials warn the disease will remain around the area for an indefinite time period.
The majority of people who are infected with West Nile virus do not get sick. Mild symptoms include fever, headache, muscle ache, rash and fatigue.
Less than 1 percent of people infected with the virus get seriously ill with symptoms that include high fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, disorientation, mental confusion, tremors, confusion, paralysis and coma.
Older adults and people with compromised immune system are at greater risk of developing a central nervous system illness, which can be fatal.
The Wisconsin Division of Public Health will continue surveillance for West Nile virus until the end of the mosquito season.
WHAT TO DO
To report a sick or dead crow, blue jay or raven, call the state dead bird reporting hotline at 800-433-1610.