Bird tests positive for West Nile virus in Dane County

MADISON -- A bird recently tested positive for West Nile virus in Dane County, the first to do so in Wisconsin this year.

West Nile virus is spread to people and horses through the bite of an infected mosquito. People must be bitten by an infected mosquito in order to contract the virus. Mosquitoes become infected with West Nile virus by feeding on infected birds and then potentially transmit the virus by biting other animals or people.

Despite the current drought conditions and low mosquito activity, the positive West Nile virus finding emphasizes the ongoing need to take precautions against mosquito bites. Follow these measures to help reduce exposure to mosquitoes and prevent West Nile virus infection:

                    Statewide surveillance activities for West Nile virus began May 1st.

                    People who find a dead bird in their yard or who have a question about a dead bird should call the Dead Bird Reporting Hotline at 1-800-433-1610.