The Wayne County Health Department is reporting the first confirmed batch of mosquitoes to test positive for West Nile virus in the county this year. According to the health department, the mosquitoes were collected September 22nd and 23rd in the eastern portion of Wayne County as part of routine mosquito testing.
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito. Health officials say most people infected with the virus do not develop symptoms. Those who do may experience fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches, with symptoms lasting anywhere from a few days to several weeks. In rare cases, approximately one in 150 infections can result in severe illness. People over the age of 60 and those with weakened immune systems are considered at greater risk for serious complications.
The Wayne County Health Department is reminding residents to follow the “Three R’s” of mosquito prevention — reduce, repel and report. Residents are encouraged to reduce exposure by limiting outdoor activity between dusk and dawn, making sure window and door screens are in good condition and eliminating standing water around their homes. Water in bird baths should also be changed weekly. When outdoors, residents are encouraged to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks and use an appropriate insect repellent according to label directions. Residents can also report areas of stagnant water, such as roadside ditches and flooded yards, to local officials in communities with organized mosquito-control programs.
Additional information can be found on the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Website at: www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/wnv.htm