News release

ELKHORN — The Walworth County Health Department urges residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites after a horse in Walworth County tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) on September 12, 2024.

This indicates that WNV-carrying mosquitoes are active in the area, posing a risk to people and animals. Other cases of WNV infections have been reported in people, mosquitoes, and animals in other parts of Wisconsin this year.

WNV is spread by mosquitoes that have bitten infected birds. It cannot be transmitted from person to person, animal to animal, or between animals and people.

Most people infected with WNV (about 80%) don’t experience symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they are usually mild and may include fever, headache, muscle aches, rash, and fatigue. In rare cases (less than 1%), WNV can cause severe illness, especially in older adults and those with weakened immune systems. Serious symptoms include high fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, paralysis, and coma. If you suspect WNV infection, contact your healthcare provider.

A vaccine is available for horses, and owners are advised to consult their veterinarian. To further protect horses, remove standing water and keep them indoors from dusk to dawn.

To avoid illnesses spread by mosquitoes, it’s important to reduce exposure and eliminate breeding sites. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services recommends the following steps:

Avoid Mosquito Bites

• Use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 on exposed skin and clothing.
• Treat clothing with permethrin (do not apply to skin).
• Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks to protect your skin.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

Change water in bird baths and pet dishes every three days.

Ensure window and door screens are in good condition.

Remove standing water from items, like containers, flowerpots, tires, gutters, and downspouts.

Turn over items like wheelbarrows, kiddie pools, and small boats such as canoes and kayaks when not in use.