'Residents should be aware:' Crow tests positive for West Nile virus in Waukesha County

WAUKESHA -- The Waukesha County Environmental Health Division has been notified of the first confirmed case of the West Nile Virus (WNV) in birds found in the county this year.

According to a press release, a crow in the Town of Genesee tested positive for the virus as part of the mosquito and West Nile Virus surveillance, prevention and control program that began May 1.

West Nile Virus can spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people (80%) who are infected with West Nile Virus do not get sick. Those who become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, or rash. Less than 1% of people get seriously ill.


    The Waukesha County Environmental Health Division, in cooperation with the Wisconsin Division of Public Health, will continue WNV surveillance until the end of the mosquito season. Now that a positive result has been identified in the County, testing will be discontinued. To report a sick or dead crow, blue jay, or raven, call the Dead Bird Reporting Hotline at 1-800-433-1610.