The first confirmed human cases of West Nile in Wisconsin this year were found in residents of Oconto and Fond du Lac Counties, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) said Monday.
State and local health officials are reminding people to protect themselves against mosquito bites after the cases were confirmed in Northeast Wisconsin.
Most West Nile virus cases happen in August and September, the DHS said.
Luckily, the chances of someone contracting West Nile are very low, and most people who are infected will not have any symptoms.
Those who do get sick may develop a fever, headache and rash that lasts a few days, the DHS said. Older adults and people with compromised immune systems have a higher risk of getting sick from West Nile.
The DHS is recommending these tips to avoid mosquito bites:
- Limit time spent outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Apply an EPA-registered insect repellant to exposed skin and clothing since mosquitoes may bite through clothing.
- Make sure window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquito entry.
- Properly dispose of items that hold water, such as tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, or discarded tires.
- Clean roof gutters and downspouts for proper drainage.
- Turn over wheelbarrows, wading pools, boats, and canoes when not in use.
- Change the water in birdbaths and pet dishes at least every three days.
- Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs; drain water from pool covers.
- Trim tall grass, weeds, and vines since mosquitoes use these areas to rest during hot daylight hours.
- Landscape to prevent water from pooling in low-lying areas.
VIDEO: Fire causes heavy damage to Door County restaurant
