First Human Case of West Nile Virus Confirmed in Wisconsin Resident
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has recently announced the first human case of West Nile virus in a Wisconsin resident this year, raising concerns as summer winds down. The infected individual is a resident of Dane County, but the virus has also been detected in horses and mosquito pools in various parts of the state.
According to the department, three horses in Wisconsin, located in Dunn and Clark counties, have tested positive for West Nile virus. Additionally, mosquito pools from Milwaukee and Lafayette counties have also tested positive for the virus. This indicates that the virus is actively circulating in the mosquito population, increasing the risk of transmission to humans.
State Health Officer Paula Tran is urging residents to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites, emphasizing that the threat of West Nile virus remains despite the approaching end of summer. Mosquito bites can be prevented by using insect repellent containing DEET, wearing long sleeves and pants, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito times, usually at dawn and dusk.
It is important to note that individuals with weakened immune systems are at the greatest risk of experiencing severe illness from West Nile virus. Therefore, they should be especially cautious and take appropriate measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
West Nile virus was first detected in Wisconsin in 2002 and has been reported in humans between June and October. On average, the state sees around 17 cases of West Nile virus each year, with most infections occurring in August and September. The risk of infection continues until the first hard frost, which marks the end of mosquito activity.
As the first human case of West Nile virus is confirmed in a Wisconsin resident, health officials are calling for increased awareness and preventive measures. By staying vigilant and taking necessary precautions, residents can mitigate the risk of contracting this potentially serious illness.
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