West Nile Virus

Protect Yourself Against Mosquito Bites

It's that time of year when state and local health
officials advise residents to protect themselves
against mosquito bites and West Nile virus.

In Wisconsin, the chances of a person contracting
WNV are very low and most people infected with
West Nile virus will not have any symptoms. Those
who do become ill may develop a fever, headache,
and rash that lasts a few days. Symptoms may begin
between 3 and 15 days after being bitten by an
infected mosquito. In rare cases, WNV can cause
severe disease with symptoms such as muscle
weakness, stiff neck, disorientation, tremors,
convulsions, paralysis and coma. Older adults and
people with compromised immune systems are at
an increased risk of severe disease from the virus.
There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus
other than to treat symptoms. If you think you have
West Nile virus infection, contact your health care
provider.

WNV is spread to people through the bite of an
infected mosquito and is not transmitted person to
person. Although few mosquitoes actually carry the
virus, tips to minimize your exposure include:




























Both the Green County Health Department and the
Department of Health and Family Services will
continue surveillance for West Nile virus until the
end of the mosquito season.

To help with the surveillance effort, Green County
residents should report sick or dead crows and blue
jays to the Green County Health Department at
608-328-9390.

For more information regarding West Nile virus  
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West Nile Virus

  • Avoid being outside during times of high mosquito
    activity, specifically dawn and dusk

  • Use effective mosquito repellant and apply according
    to the label instructions

  • Keep window screens repaired so mosquitoes cannot
    enter your home

  • Dispose of discarded tires, cans or other containers
    left outside that may contain standing water

  • Turn over wading pools, hot tub covers, wheel
    barrows, boats and canoes when not in use

  • Keep drains, ditches and culverts clean of trash and
    weeds so water will drain properly

  • Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure they drain
    properly

  • Change the water in bird baths, pet dishes and
    wading pools every 3-4 days

  • Trim tall grass, weeds and vines since mosquitoes
    use these places to rest during hot daylight hours

  • Landscape to prevent water from pooling in low-lying
    areas