Eau
Claire (Press Release) - The Eau Claire City-County Health Department
reports a dead crow found in the city of Eau Claire on August 20, 2012 has
tested positive for West Nile virus.
This is the first dead bird that tested positive for West Nile virus in Eau
Claire County since surveillance for the mosquito-transmitted virus began May
1.
"The positive bird means that residents of the
City and County need to be more vigilant in their personal protective measures
to prevent mosquito bites," Richard Thoune, Director/ Health Officer said.
West Nile virus is spread to humans
through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes acquire the virus by
feeding on infected birds.
"Eau Claire residents should be
aware of West Nile virus and take some simple steps to protect themselves
against mosquito bites," Thoune said. "The West Nile virus seems to be here to
stay, so the best way to avoid the disease is to reduce exposure to and
eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes."
The Eau Claire City-County Health
Department recommends the following:
- Limit time spent
outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Apply insect repellant
to clothing as well as exposed skin 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.
The majority of people (80%) who are 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. Less than 1% 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. Older adults (age 50+) and those with
compromised immune systems are at greater risk of developing central nervous
system illness that can be fatal.
The Department of Health Services
has monitored the spread of West Nile virus since 2001 among wild birds,
horses, mosquitoes, and people. In 2002, the state documented its first human
infections, with 52 human cases. In 2011, there were three human cases of West
Nile virus.
The
Wisconsin Division of Public Health 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.
For more information on West Nile virus: http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/ArboviralDiseases/WestNileVirus/Index.htm
