More West Nile virus identified in McLean County

Posted on August 24, 2023

Mosquiot — *The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced Wednesday the first WNV-related death in 2023 in suburban Cook County. (WJBC file photo)*

By WJBC Staff

BLOOMINGTON – A second pool of mosquitoes in Mclean County tested positive for West Nile Virus this week.

According to the McLean County Health Department (MCHD), the second pool collected is from the 61705 zip code area east of Bloomington. On Monday, staff from MCHD’s Environmental Health division immediately began distributing doorknob hangers in the neighborhoods where these samples were collected to notify residents and provide information on preventative measures.

Last week a mosquito pool collected in the 61705 zip code area west of Bloomington tested positive. The 61705 zip code area covers a large portion of McLean County.

Over the past 4 weeks, MCHD also reported dead bird samples that tested positive for WNV in the 61701 zip code area of Bloomington, as well as the 61761 zip code area in Normal.

Approximately one in five people infected with WNV will experience symptoms. Mild cases can cause a slight fever or headache. Severe infections can lead to high fever, disorientation, and even paralysis or death. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced Wednesday the first WNV-related death in 2023 in suburban Cook County.

There is no vaccine for WNV, so the only way to avoid infection is to avoid mosquito bites. To minimize the risks of mosquito-borne illnesses, MCHD recommends following the 3 Rs:

Remove areas of standing water around your yard where mosquitoes can breed, such as old tires or unused planting pots. This is recommended weekly. It takes only 7-10 days for the Culex mosquito egg to develop into a biting adult.

Repel mosquitoes using insect repellent that includes DEET, lemon eucalyptus oil, or picaridin according to label instructions (consult a physician before using repellents on young children). You can also repel by wearing clothing that covers your skin, especially at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

Report dead birds that show no sign of injury to the MCHD Environmental Health division at (309) 888-5482. If it appears the bird died within the past 24 hours (no decay or insect infestation) MCHD may collect it and have it tested for WNV.

WJBC News can be reached at [email protected]

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