McHenry County Department of Health
(MCDH) reports a robin found in Crystal Lake has tested positive for West Nile
virus (WNV). As of July 16, there have been five positive mosquito
batches reported in McHenry County but no human cases for WNV. According
to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), 17 other counties have
reported positive bird and mosquito batches; no human cases so far this year.
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.
The risk of disease from West Nile
virus remains until the first hard frost. The best way to prevent WNV is to
reduce the number of mosquito breeding sites 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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