Milwaukee County Reports Human Case of West nile Virus
Milwaukee County health officials have confirmed the first human case of west Nile โขvirus (WNV) in 2024, detected in a โฃresident of the North Shore. The case servesโ as a critical reminder for residents to take precautions against mosquito bites as the insects become more active โคduring warmer months.โข
West Nile โคvirus is transmitted through the biteโ of infected mosquitoes. While most infections โขare mild, symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches,โข nausea, โคvomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands. in rare cases, the virus can cause more serious neurological illnesses like โencephalitis or meningitis, particularly in โindividuals with weakened immune systems. Health officials urgeโข residents to protect themselves and their families by following preventative measures.
Protectโค Yourself from Mosquito Bites
The North Shore Health Department recommends the following steps to minimize the risk of WNV infection:
* Use insectโ repellent: apply insect repellent containing โคDEET,picaridin,IR3535,oil of lemon eucalyptus,or para-menthane-diol โคto exposedโฃ skin and clothing. Follow product instructions carefully.
* Wear protective clothing: Wear loose-fitting long sleeves and long pants, especially during peak mosquito activity hours – dusk to dawn.
* Eliminate breeding grounds: Remove standing water from around your home,including โtin cans,plastic containers,flowerpots,discarded tires,roof gutters,and downspouts. Turn over wheelbarrows, kiddie pools, buckets, and small boats when not in use. Change the water in birdbaths and pet dishes at least every three days.Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor โsaunas, and hot tubs; drain water from pool covers.
* Maintain screens: Ensure window and door screens are intact and tightly fitted.
* โ Manage vegetation: Trim โor mow tall grass, weeds, and vines, as mosquitoes rest in shaded areas.
Residents with questions or โฃconcerns about west Nile virus are encouraged to contact the North โคShoreโค Health Department at 414-371-2980.
Source: Information provided by the North Shore Health Department.
