West Nile virus found in Dodge county birds

Wednesday, August 27, 2008 12:30 PM CDT

JUNEAU - The Dodge County Human Services and Health Department, Public Health Unit, reports a dead bird found in Dodge County has tested positive for West Nile virus.

It is the second bird that has tested positive for West Nile virus in the county since surveillance for the mosquito-transmitted virus began May 1.

“The positive bird means that residents of Dodge County need to continue a high level vigilance in their personal protective measures to prevent mosquito bites,” Jody Langfeldt, public health officer, said.

West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes get the virus by feeding on infected birds.

“County residents should be aware of West Nile virus and take some simple steps to protect themselves against mosquito bites,” Langfeldt said. “The West Nile virus seems to be here to stay, so the best way to avoid the disease is to reduce exposure to and eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes.”

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The Dodge County Health and Human Services Department recommends the following:

- Maintain window screens in good repair to decrease indoor contact with mosquitoes.

- Avoid being outside during times of high mosquito activity, specifically around dawn and dusk.

- Wear light colored protective clothing such as long pants, loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts and tuck pants in socks when outdoors.

- When outdoors, consider using an effective mosquito repellent containing an active ingredient registered by the Environmental Protection Agency, such as DEET, picardin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

- Do not provide a breeding ground to mosquitoes. Remove containers, old tires and any objects where water can collect and mosquitoes can lay eggs.

The majority of people, about 80 percent, who are infected with West Nile virus do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache or rash. Less than 1 percent of the people infected with the virus get seriously ill.

This mosquito season, two human cases have been identified with West Nile virus in Wisconsin.

Dodge County, in cooperation with the Wisconsin Division of Public Health, will continue surveillance for West Nile virus until the end of the mosquito season. Once two West Nile virus birds are identified in the county, testing will be discontinued on a regular basis, but reports of sick or dead cows, blue jays or ravens should still be reported.

To report a sick or dead cow, blue jay or raven, call the dead bird reporting hotline at 1-800-433-1610.