The presence of West Nile virus has been confirmed within mosquitos in multiple locations around Illinois according to reports from local health districts, this statement alerts residents to the growing concern as mosquito season ramps up. In the Chicago suburb of Lincolnwood, the North Shore Mosquito Abatement District identified the first group of mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus this week, as they collected, tested, and verified a positive batch on June 24, with lab results coming back on June 27, CBS News Chicago reported.
Additionally, this threat isn't confined to northern Illinois, as ABC 7 Chicago highlighted the discovery of infected mosquito batches in Hoffman Estates in Cook County and downstate in Morgan County, confirming that the viral disease is indeed on the public health radar across the state; although severe cases are rare the Illinois Department of Public Health reported six West Nile deaths last year, underscoring the potential risk to residents.
Transmitted through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito, West Nile virus can cause flu-like symptoms in humans including fever, headache, and muscle aches. While most people recover without issues, the disease can lead to serious neurological illnesses such as meningitis and encephalitis in some cases, and even death, particularly in individuals over 60 or those with compromised immune systems.
In light of the findings, local health officials are urging Illinois residents to take proactive measures to guard against mosquito bites such as using insect repellents containing DEET or Picaridin, wearing protective clothing during peak mosquito hours around dawn and dusk, and avoiding standing water where mosquitoes breed which could be in large containers like swimming pools or something as small as a bottle cap so it's critical to inspect and eliminate any potential mosquito breeding grounds on properties.
The North Shore Mosquito Abatement District also reminds the community to be vigilant in eliminating standing water, emphasizing that even a small amount is enough for mosquitoes to breed, and advising the use of EPA-registered insect repellents and wearing long sleeves and pants during active mosquito periods.
