Mosquitoes in Milwaukee test positive for West Nile virus

Mosquitoes are testing positive for West Nile virus in Milwaukee City and the North Shore, the city of Milwaukee Health Department said. Testing in the area began in early July. No confirmed human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in 2023. In 2022, Wisconsin had six confirmed and probable cases of West Nile virus. “Although there have not yet been any confirmed human cases of West Nile virus this year, the positive mosquitoes mean that Milwaukee residents need to be more vigilant in their personal protective measures to prevent bites,” said Dr. Mike Totoraitis, Health Commissioner in Milwaukee. From 2018 to 2022, an average of 11 cases of West Nile virus will be reported each year. Wisconsin Nile virus was first found in wild birds in 2001, and the first human infections were reported in 2002. How is West Nile virus spread? West Nile virus is spread to humans and other animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes acquire the virus by feeding on infected birds. The virus is not spread directly from person to person, animal to animal, or animal to person. What are the symptoms? Eighty percent of people infected with West Nile virus do not get sick. Those who do get sick usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, rash, and fatigue. However, less than 1% who become infected with the virus become seriously ill, including high fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, disorientation, mental confusion, tremors, confusion, paralysis and coma. An average of 17 cases of West Nile virus are reported among Wisconsin residents each year. Human infections have been reported from June to October; however, most people with WNV report becoming ill in August and September. How to prevent WNV? The best way to avoid WNV is to reduce mosquito exposure and eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Mosquito activity and the risk of WNV will continue for the rest of the summer until there is a hard freeze (temperatures below 28 degrees Fahrenheit for at least four consecutive hours). Apply an insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 to exposed skin and clothing. Before going outdoors, treat clothing with permethrin; do not apply permethrin directly to the skin. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during the evening or early morning hours when mosquitoes that spread WNV are most active. Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors to help keep mosquitoes off your skin. For more information on prevention and the latest updates, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Department website. SEE Chinese zoo denies sun bears are humans in costume