Two Local Deaths Might be Linked to West Nile Virus

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by WDJT Editor

Story Created: Sep 6, 2012 at 5:12 PM CDT

Story Updated: Sep 6, 2012

MILWAUKEE-- Two people who tested positive for West Nile Virus in our area have now died, officials say.

So far, it has not been confirmed whether both deaths are linked to the West Nile Virus. Health officials say they are waiting on further laboratory tests to determine that.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, the person who died in Milwaukee County was a woman in her upper 70s, while the person in Waukesha County was a person over 50.

Officials say while this is a serious disease, it is important to keep in mind that about 80% of people who are infected never have symptoms, about 20% have a mild ilness, and less than 1% have extreme complications.

Wisconsin has not seen a confirmed death from the West Nile Virus since 2008.

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