STEVENS POINT − Officials announced Sept. 25 the first human case of West Nile virus in Portage County this year.
Local health officials are advising residents to continue to protect themselves against mosquito bites, according to a Portage County news release. West Nile virus previously has been detected in other parts of Wisconsin already this year, including other human cases, as well as in mosquitoes and animals.
West Nile virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito and is not spread from person to person. Mosquitoes get the virus by feeding on infected birds, according to the news release.
Wood County announced its first human case of West Nile virus on Sept. 8, and Clark County announced its first case Sept. 5. Shawano County also announced its first case this week.
What are the symptoms of West Nile virus?
Most people who are infected with West Nile virus do not get sick, according to the news release. Those who do become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle ache, rash and fatigue.
Less than 1% who become 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 those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe illness that can be fatal. It is important people contact a health care provider if they suspect they have West Nile virus.
Reduce your risk of mosquito bites
The best way to avoid illnesses spread by mosquitoes is to reduce exposure to mosquitoes and eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Mosquitoes will no longer be active once there is a hard frost for at least four consecutive hours.
To avoid mosquito bites, apply an insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemony eucalyptus or IR3535 to exposed skin and clothing. Prior to heading outdoors treat clothing with permethrin, but do not apply permethrin directly to the skin. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur in evening or early morning hours when mosquitoes are most active.
Prevent mosquitoes from breeding around homes by removing stagnant water from items around properties. Empty standing water that has collected in tin cans, plastic containers, flower pots, discarded tires, roof gutters and downspouts. Turn over wheelbarrows, kiddie pools, buckets and small boats such as canoes and kayaks when not in use. Change the water in bird baths and pet dishes at least every three days.
Contact Karen Madden at kmadden@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @KMadden715, Instagram @kmadden715 or Facebook at www.facebook.com/karen.madden.33.
This article originally appeared on Stevens Point Journal: Portage County announces first human case of West Nile virus this year
Reporting by Karen Madden, Stevens Point Journal / Stevens Point Journal
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