The Clay County Health Department has reported its fourth West Nile virus positive mosquito sample for the 2026 season in the county this week. The sample was collected on Friday in Flora.
Last month, the Wayne County Health Department reported its first confirmed batch of mosquitoes to test positive for the West Nile virus in the county this year. That was reported on September 22nd and 23rd when mosquitoes were collected in the eastern part of Wayne County as part of routine mosquito testing.
The West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito. Health officials say most people who are infected with the virus don’t develop symptoms, but those who do may experience conditions including fever, nausea, headaches and muscle aches for a few days or weeks. People over 60 and those with weakened immune systems have a higher risk of developing symptoms.
Both the Wayne and Clay County health departments encourage residents to follow the three “R’s” of mosquito prevention. They include reducing exposure, repel them by wearing insect repellant and reporting areas of stagnant water and other areas where mosquitoes typically breed to local officials.
Additional information can be found on the Illinois Department of Public Health’s website.