Be Aware of West Nile Virus

PUBLIC HEALTH WARNING:

BIRD TESTS POSITIVE FOR WEST NILE VIRUS


(Keshena, WI)

- The Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department reports a dead crow found in the Village of Keshena, Menominee County on July 30, 2013 has tested positive for West Nile virus. This is the first bird that has tested positive for West Nile virus in Menominee County since surveillance for the mosquito-transmitted virus began on May 1st. While less than 1% of people infected with West Nile virus will become severely ill, children, older adults and people with compromised immune systems are at increased risk of severe disease from the virus. "Due to the positive bird, residents of Menominee County are urged to be more vigilant in their personal protective measures to prevent mosquito bites," said Becky Hovarter, Health Director, Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department.

The West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes acquire the virus by feeding on infected birds. Handling of dead birds does not increase risk of contracting the virus due to the primary method of transmission through bites acquired by infected mosquitoes.

Approximately 80% of people infected with the virus do not become sick; the remaining 20% may experience mild symptoms of fever, headache, rash, muscle ache, and fatigue. Less than 1% 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 (age 50+) and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk of developing central nervous system illness that can be fatal. Symptoms usually occur within 3-14 days after a West Nile virus infected mosquito bites a human. Individuals are urged to contact their physician if they think they have contracted West Nile virus.

Menominee residents should be aware of West Nile virus and take some simple steps to protect themselves against mosquito bites. The best way to avoid the disease is to reduce exposure to and eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

The Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department recommends the following for all residents:

 Limit time spent outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.

 Apply insect repellant to clothing as well as exposed skin 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.


Public Health Warning August 7, 2013

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 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.

The Department of Health Services has monitored the spread of West Nile virus since 2001 among wild birds, horses, mosquitoes, and people. During 2002, the state documented its first human infections and 52 cases were reported that year. During 2012, 57 cases of West Nile virus infection were reported among Wisconsin residents, the highest annual number of cases reported since surveillance began in Wisconsin. West Nile virus infections in humans have been reported from June through October; however, most reported becoming ill with West Nile virus in August and September.

The Wisconsin Division of Public Health will continue surveillance for West Nile virus until the end of the mosquito season. To report a sick or dead crow, blue jay, or raven, please call the Dead Bird Reporting Hotline at 1-800-433-1610.

For more general information and prevention steps relating to West Nile virus, please visit
http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/ArboviralDiseases/WestNileVirus/Index.htm or for other questions, please contact Gary Schuettpelz, R.S., Menominee Tribal Clinic at (715)799-3361 or Shawano-Menominee County Health Department at (715)526-4808. For questions regarding personal illness and symptoms, please contact your physician.