IL health officials warn of West Nile Virus

(KBSI) – West Nile Virus could be a major issue this summer, according to the Illinois Department of Health.

The first two batches of mosquitoes to test positive in 2024 for West Nile virus in Illinois were in in Hoffman Estates in Cook County and one in Morgan County, according to the Illinois Department of Health.

“We are a little ahead on our positivity scale compared to 2023,” said Samantha Kerr with the Vector Surveillance and Control for the Illinois Department of Health. “We’re looking like we may have some positives earlier in the season this year, but we will see how it goes.”

Illinois and Missouri combined has had three positive cases of West Nile Virus.

“West Nile virus is not transmitted human to human,” said Keer. “It’s maintained in a cycle in the environment between mosquitoes and bird species. Humans are dead end hosts.”

Symptoms of West Nile Virus include joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and fever.

In some cases, brain inflammation and headaches can occur.

Kerr says if you think you have the virus, you should contact your doctor or healthcare provider.

“So there isn’t any medications or anything to help since it is a viral infection so rest fluids, different things. whatever your healthcare provider suggests,” said Kerr.

The best way to protect yourself is to dump all standing water. Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Use bug spray around your home and on yourself.