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For Immediate Release
September 2, 2022
Contact: Elizabeth Goodsitt/Jennifer Miller 608-266-1683
Two Animals Test Positive for West Nile Virus
?State Health Department urges everyone to protect themselves against mosquito bites
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is reminding people to protect themselves from mosquito bites now that two animals in the state have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). A bird from Milwaukee County and a horse from Trempealeau County are the first reported WNV infections in the state this year. No human cases of WNV have been reported yet in 2022. The presence of animals with WNV confirms that there are mosquitoes infected with WNV in the state that can transmit the virus to people and other animals.
"These cases are a reminder of the importance of taking precautions to protect ourselves from mosquitoes and the viruses they carry, which poses a risk to all Wisconsinites, especially to those who have weakened immune systems," said State Health Officer Paula Tran. ?By wearing insect repellent and eliminating standing water around our homes where mosquitos breed, we can help protect ourselves and our neighbors.?
WNV is spread to humans, horses, birds, and other animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes acquire WNV by feeding on infected birds. The virus is not spread directly from person to person, animal to animal, or animal to person.
View the entire news release.
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