West Nile Virus

"West Nile virus (WNV) is most commonly transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. You can reduce your risk of being infected with WNV by using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites. There are no medications to treat or vaccines to prevent WNV infection. Fortunately, most people infected with WNV will have no symptoms. About 1 in 5 people who are infected will develop a fever with other symptoms. Less than 1% of infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, neurologic illness." - United States CDC

West Nile Symptoms

About 1 in 5 people who are infected will develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people with this type of West Nile virus disease recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and believe you may have west nile, contact a doctor immediately.

West Nile Dead Bird Reporting

If you find a dead bird (particularly blue jays, crows, or ravens) you may report them to the Wisconsin Dead Bird Hotline.  These birds are then tested to determine if they have West Nile.  This is a way to track the disease and give people warnings to take precautions against mosquitoes that may carry the virus.

The contact number for the dead bird hotline is 800-433-1610.