Three crows in Waukesha County tested positive for West Nile

WAUKESHA – Officials in Waukesha County say three crows have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

These results are the first confirmation of  WNV positive birds found in Waukesha County in 2012 since surveillance for the mosquito-transmitted virus began May 1st. 

The crows were found in August in the City of New Berlin, the City of Pewaukee and the Town of Brookfield.

Health officials say the positive results means that residents of Waukesha County need to be more vigilant in their personal protective measures to prevent mosquito bites.  West Nile Virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.  Mosquitoes get the virus by feeding on infected birds.

Waukesha County residents should be aware of WNV and take some simple steps to protect themselves against mosquito bites.  The best way to avoid the WNV disease is to reduce exposure to and eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

The Waukesha County Health and Human Services Department recommends the following:

The majority of people (80%) who are infected with WNV do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, or rash.  Less than 1% of people infected with the virus get seriously ill.

To report a sick or dead crow, blue jay, or raven, please call the Dead Bird Reporting Hotline at 1-800-433-1610.