Vilas County Public Health Department

Hot Topics

During the summer months in the Northwoods, there are a number of challenges that residents and visitors face. Below are links to information about some of the most common issues.

West Nile Virus - This link will take you to the Centers for Disease Contol website where you will find a great deal of information about what West Nile Virus is and how to prevent it.

West Nile Virus and Dead Birds - If you find a dead bird, do not touch it with your bare hands. The only dead birds that should be brought to the Vilas County Public Health Department are ravens, crows, and bluejays. Please review the information found at this link for more information.

Bat and Rabies - The most important thing to do if you are bitten by a bat is to wash the wound site thoroughly. Then bring the bat to the Public Health Department, intact. Visit the Centers for Disease Contol website via this link to learn more about bats and rabies.

Swimmer's Itch - The Centers for Disease Contol website offers a thorough description of what the signs and symptoms of Swimmer's Itch are and how to reduce the risk of contracting the rash.

Lyme Disease - Information provided by the Mayo Clinic website through this link provides a clear description of the symptoms of Lyme Disease. The disease is transmitted by deer ticks. To the right is a photo showing all four stages of Ixodes scapularis, the black-legged or deer tick with dime for size comparison.

Blastomycosis - Visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website from this link to learn more about Blastomycosis in Wisconsin.

Basic Food Safety - For tips on safe food handling visit this link to the United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service website.

Barbecue Food Safety - This fact sheet from the United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service website provides information specifically cooking outdoors.

 

 

Vilas County Public Health Department
Courthouse, 330 Court Street
Eagle River, WI 54521
Phone: 715-479-3656; Fax: 715-479-3741