STURTEVANT, Wis. — Racine County has recorded its first human case of West Nile virus of 2026, prompting local public health officials to remind residents to take precautions against mosquito bites. The Racine County Public Health Division and the City of Racine Public Health Department announced the case Wednesday, Sept. 23. They said West Nile virus activity has also been detected in mosquitoes and animals elsewhere in Wisconsin this year, and other human cases have been reported in the state. West Nile virus is transmitted when a person is bitten by a mosquito that became infected after feeding on a virus-carrying bird. It does not spread directly from person to person, between animals or from animals to people. Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms. Those who do become ill commonly experience fever, headache, muscle aches, rash or fatigue. Fewer than 1% of infected people develop serious neurological illness, which can include high fever, muscle weakness, a stiff neck, confusion, tremors, paralysis or coma. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe disease, which can be fatal. Anyone who develops symptoms and suspects West Nile infection should contact a health care provider. In Wisconsin, West Nile illness is most frequently seen during August and September. Officials said the risk of West Nile and other mosquito-borne diseases continues whenever mosquitoes are active, including through the remainder of summer and into early fall. Residents can reduce their risk by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and long pants when possible, keeping doors and window screens in good repair, and removing standing water where mosquitoes can breed. Water that collects in items such as buckets, flowerpots, children’s toys and clogged gutters should be emptied regularly.