Press Releases

July 19, 2006
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Michelle Pintar
Phone: (414) 431-6104
E-mail: mpintar@wihumane.org

Stop West Nile Virus Before it Starts

MILWAUKEE – Wild birds made ill by West Nile Virus have been finding their way to the Wisconsin Humane Society's Wildlife Rehabilitation Center . Dozens of infected crows, a Great Horned Owl and a Red-tailed Hawk have recently arrived at WHS.

West Nile Virus can also affect people, particularly the elderly and people with compromised immune systems.

The Wisconsin Humane Society would like to offer these tips to our community to help stop the spread of the disease:

·   Change water in birdbaths at least twice a week, since mosquitoes can hatch in as little as four days.

·   Clean out the gutters on your house to keep them from holding water where mosquitoes can breed.

·   Eliminate water in flowerpot bases, old tires, buckets, watering cans, wheelbarrows, swimming pool covers, etc.

·   Eliminate standing water in your yard by correcting landscaping problems.

· Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn. When possible, avoid working outdoors when mosquitoes are biting. Some mosquitoes are active during the day – particularly in weedy, bushy and wooded or shaded areas, so you may wish to avoid working in these areas if you can, or use an appropriate mosquito repellent applied according to label directions.

# # #

Note: Scott Diehl, Wildlife Manager for the Wisconsin Humane Society, is available for interviews. A photo opportunity of WHS' permanent resident crow and “yard search” for sources of water that allow mosquitoes to breed are also available. To schedule an appointment, contact Michelle Pintar at (414) 431-6104.