The West Nile virus has been identified in a dead crow found in Keshena on the Menominee Reservation, according to the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department.
This is the first bird that tested positive for West Nile virus in Menominee County since surveillance for the mosquito-transmitted virus began May 1, the department said.
The bird was found July 29. Results of the test were announced Wednesday.
“The positive bird means that residents of Menominee County are urged to be more vigilant in their personal protective measures to prevent mosquito bites,” said Becky Hovarter, health officer and director of the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department.
Mosquitoes get infected with West Nile virus by feeding on infected birds. Once infected with the virus, a mosquito will transmit the virus to humans, other animals or birds when they take another blood meal.
Handling a dead bird does not increase the risk of contracting West Nile virus because it is spread primarily through the bite from an infected mosquito.
Residents should be aware of West Nile virus and take some simple steps to protect themselves against mosquito bites, Hovarter said. The best way to avoid the disease is to reduce exposure to and eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
According to the health department, 80 percent of people infected with West Nile virus do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle ache, rash, and fatigue.
While less than 1 percent 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 complications from the virus.
For those who do get seriously ill, symptoms include high fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, disorientation, mental confusion, tremors, confusion, paralysis, and coma. Symptoms usually occur within three to 14 days after a West Nile virus infected mosquito bites a person.
Categories
