Bird Tests Positive for West Nile Virus

The Department of Health Services says a dead bird in Columbia County has tested positive for West Nile Virus. This is the first case reported in Wisconsin in 2018. West Nile is spread to humans through mosquitoes, who get the virus from feeding on infected birds. Wisconsin had a higher than average number of cases in humans, birds, and horses last year. Most people who are infected do not get sick – and those who do usually experience mild symptoms of fevers, headaches, and fatigue. Less than one-percent of people infected see serious illness. DHS reminds people to protect themselves against mosquito bites this summer.