Sheboygan West Nile virus: Crow tests positive, public urged to avoid mosquito bites

SHEBOYGAN - A dead crow found in Sheboygan County has tested positive for West Nile virus, the Sheboygan County Division of Public Health said Monday.

This is the first crow that tested positive for West Nile virus in Sheboygan County since surveillance for the mosquito-transmitted virus began May 1. Mosquitoes acquire the virus by feeding on infected birds.

According to the Division of Public Health, around 80 percent of people infected with West Nile do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle ache, rash and fatigue. Less than 1 percent of people 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.

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Older adults and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk of developing a central nervous system illness that can be fatal.

“Residents should be aware of West Nile virus and take some simple steps to protect themselves against mosquito bites,” Tim Swart, registered sanitarian with Sheboygan County, said. “The best way to avoid the disease is to reduce exposure to and eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes.”

The Sheboygan County Division of Public Health recommends the following:

• Limit time spent outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Apply an insect repellant with DEET, IR3535, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing.
• Make sure window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquito entry.
• Prevent mosquitoes from breeding by removing stagnant water from items around your property, such as tin cans, plastic containers, flower pots, discarded tires, roof gutters and downspouts.
• Turn over wheelbarrows, wading pools, boats and canoes when not in use.
• Change the water in bird baths and pet dishes at least every three days.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs; drain water from pool covers.
• Landscape to prevent water from pooling in low-lying areas, and trim tall grass, weeds, and vines, since mosquitoes use these areas to rest during hot daylight hours.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services will continue surveillance for West Nile virus until the end of the mosquito season. To report a sick or dead crow, blue jay, or raven, please call the Dead Bird Reporting Hotline at 1-800-433-1610.