DHS offers safety advice after case of West Nile virus reported in Washington Co.

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Health officials from the Wisconsin DHS are cautioning people to be aware of the West Nile virus in mosquitos. 

The first human case of the year in Wisconsin was identified in Washington County, where a person developed symptoms. DHS is also investigating a few other cases. 

On average, 16 West Nile cases are reported in Wisconsin each year. Last year, 25 cases were reported. 

DHS recommends wearing bug spray, long sleeves and pants, and staying inside at dawn and dusk, which are peak activity times for mosquitos. 

"If you do get a fever, body aches, fatigue, headache. It can feel a lot like the flu or influenza. But it typically wouldn't involve respiratory symptoms," said Rebecca Osborn, Wisconsin DHS. 

Osborn said it is sometimes difficult to know if you have West Nile only based off your symptoms, but a lab test can make that determination. 

The peak season for West Nile runs through September.