McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) reports
two birds – one found in Woodstock, the other in Cary – have tested positive
for West Nile virus (WNV).
As of August 3rd, MCDH has recorded nine positive
mosquito batches but no human cases for WNV. According to the latest
report from Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), 29 other counties have
reported positive bird and mosquito batches and two human cases so far this
year. In McHenry County, one human case of WNV was reported in each of
the last two years.
WNV is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito
that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. Illness from West
Nile virus is usually mild and includes fever, headache and body aches but
serious illnesses, such as encephalitis and meningitis and death, are
possible. Symptoms may last from a few days to a few weeks. Persons
50 and older have the highest risk of severe disease but everyone is at
risk.
As the hot summer continues, so does mosquito
activity and the risk of disease from West Nile virus. The risk for WNV
remains until the first hard frost. The best way to prevent WNV is to reduce
the number of mosquitoes around your home and to take personal precautions.
- Empty standing water from containers around the house; make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens
- Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk, dawn); use insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus; wear long sleeved shirts and long pants for extra protection.
For more information on WNV, visit www.mcdh.info (Environmental Health) or call
815-334-4585.
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