Mosquitoes test positive for West Nile Virus in Milwaukee



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- The City of Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) has confirmed the first West Nile virus positive mosquito pools in the city for 2013.

The mosquitoes were collected and tested as part of the MHD’s seasonal West Nile surveillance and prevention efforts that includes reporting of birds, mosquitoes, and human cases of infection along with placement of larvicide treatments and community outreach.

“We have detected 3 positive mosquito pools in traps that are set as part of our surveillance program in Milwaukee which means there is a slight elevated risk for human infection in the coming weeks and months,” detailed Paul Biedrzycki with the City of Milwaukee Health Department. Biedrzycki also added that currently there is no vaccine for the virus.

Biedrzyski said that the weather Milwaukee has been experiencing a lot of this summer- a warm and dry climate- is favorable for this breed of mosquito that carries the virus. He said it’s favorable for reproducing and also for the transmission of West Nile Virus in the community.

Testing for West Nile Virus in Milwaukee



“Though the City of Milwaukee Health Department has yet to see a confirmed case of West Nile virus in an individual this year, a positive mosquito test serves as a reminder to all city residents that it is time to take steps to protect themselves against mosquito bites,” said Commissioner of Health Bevan K. Baker.

At this time, the state of Wisconsin has two reported cases of West Nile virus in an individual in 2013. In 2012, the state reported the highest number of West Nile virus cases since 2002, confirming 57 cases and five deaths statewide, including 15 cases and one death in the city of Milwaukee.

Most West Nile virus infections occur between June and September, and are transmitted to humans through a mosquito bite. Not all mosquitoes carry the virus, and only 20 percent of individuals bit by an infected mosquito will develop symptoms such as fever, rash, headache, and joint pain. Those most susceptible to serious illness and hospitalization associated with West Nile virus are individuals over 60 years of age and those with underlying medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. If you experience symptoms of West Nile Virus, contact your health care provider.

The MHD reminds individuals to take steps to prevent mosquito bites, including:


    For more information on West Nile virus, visit www.milwaukee.gov/health.