Dodge County Resident Contracts West Nile Virus

11/22/17 – A Dodge County resident has contracted West Nile Virus. The Dodge County Human Services and Health Department Public Health Unit confirmed the infection on Tuesday. It is the first confirmed human case of West Nile virus in Dodge County since surveillance for the mosquito-transmitted virus began May 1. While it may sound late for a case of West Nile to be diagnosed, that is not the case according to Public Health Officer Jody Langfeldt who says different types of mosquitoes are active at different times of the year.  Those that carry the mosquito-borne illness are more active later in the summer and fall. West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, who acquire the virus by feeding on infected birds. While mosquito activity is over for the year, Langfeldt says residents need to continue to take precautions to decrease breeding spots for mosquitoes when warm weather returns.  The Dodge County Human Services and Health Department recommends making sure window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquito entry in spring and summer; removing or disposing of items around your property that hold water, such as tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, or discarded tires; cleaning roof gutters and downspouts for proper drainage; and keeping coverings over boats, pools and other outdoor items tight so water does not pool. The majority of people who are infected with West Nile virus, around 80-percent, do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle ache, rash, and fatigue. Dodge County reported a West Nile Virus positive bird in June. For more information on West Nile virus: http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/ArboviralDiseases/WestNileVirus/Index.htm