The City of Milwaukee Health Department is alerting citizens to the appearance of West Nile virus (WNV) in the area, as confirmed by reports of two human cases within the city and several others throughout the state of Wisconsin this year. According to a Health Department statement, WNV has also been detected in mosquitoes, animals, and even in screened blood donors. West Nile virus is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito, said officials, emphasizing that it is not directly transmissible between people or animals.
Health officials pinpoint August and September as the most vulnerable months for WNV infections, but the risk persists beyond that, potentially extending into late autumn, depending on when the first hard frost hits—a temperature drop below 28°F sustained for a minimum of four consecutive hours. Apart from WNV, mosquitoes in Wisconsin also carry other diseases, like Jamestown Canyon virus and La Crosse encephalitis virus, which citizens should be cautious of.
The majority of those contaminated with WNV do not exhibit any signs of illness, but those who do may endure symptoms ranging from fever and muscle aches to rashes and fatigue. Milwaukee's Health Department warns that severe outcomes, such as paralysis or coma, though rarer, are more likely to occur in older adults and individuals with compromised immune systems. "Anyone experiencing symptoms of WNV should contact a healthcare provider immediately," urged the health advisory.
To reduce the risk of West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses, the Milwaukee Health Department advises residents to use EPA-approved insect repellents, including those with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Other important measures include wearing protective clothing and preventing standing water around homes, as well as ensuring window and door screens are in good condition. Officials urge residents to be especially vigilant during peak mosquito activity at dusk and dawn.
