The Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department has reported that they have found a dead crow in Shawano County that tested positive for West Nile Virus. Health Officials say this is the first bird that tested positive in the counties since surveillance began in May.
“The positive bird means that residents of Shawano and Menominee Counties need to be more vigilant in their personal protective measures to prevent mosquito bites” said Health Officer/Director Judith Sengstock. “The West Nile Virus seems to be here to stay , so the best way to avoid the disease is to reduce exposure to and eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes” Sengstock added.
The Shawano Menominee Counties Health Department had made the following recommendations.
-Limit time spent outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
-Apply insect repellent to clothing as well as exposed skin, since mosquitoes may bite through clothing.
-Make sure window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquito entry.
-Properly dispose of items around your property that hold water, such as tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, or discarded tires.
-Clean roof gutters and downspouts for proper drainage
-Turn over wheelbarrows, wading pools, boats, and canoes when not in use.
-Change the water in bird baths and pet dishes often
-Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Also, drain water from pool covers.
-Trim tall grass, weeds, and vines since mosquitoes use these areas to rest during hot daylight hours.
-Landscape to prevent water from pooling in low-lying areas.