WASHINGTON COUNTY — Washington County joined the growing list of West Nile Virus (WNV) positive counties in Illinois for the 2024 season.

A bird from Washington County tested positive last week for WNV, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).

As of the latest report, there have been no human cases of WNV in Illinois this season.

To help prevent the spread of WNV, eliminate standing water in planters, unused wading pools, bird baths, and old tires.

Protect Yourself During Peak Mosquito Activity Times by long-sleeved shirts and pants during early morning and evening hours; use EPA-registered insect repellents with DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), PMD, or 2-undecanone.

Ensure infants, small children, elderly individuals, and those unable to take precautions are protected.
Most people do not experience symptoms; mild cases include headaches and fever.

Less than 1% develop severe symptoms like high fever, stiff neck, disorientation, and muscle weakness. Seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms.