West Nile virus detected in Perry County mosquitoes
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
PINCKNEYVILLE, Ill., (KBSI) — The first mosquito sample to test positive for West Nile virus in Perry County this season was collected near the Tamaroa Sewage Treatment Plant, according to the Perry County Health Department.
The sample was collected during the final week of August and tested positive Sept. 1.
West Nile virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes contract the virus by feeding on infected birds.
About one in five people who become infected experience mild symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches and nausea. Symptoms typically appear three to 14 days after a bite.
In rare cases, the virus can cause severe neurological illnesses, including encephalitis or meningitis, which may lead to long-term complications or death.
Health officials recommend following the “Three R’s” to reduce the risk of infection:
Reduce exposure: Limit outdoor activity between dusk and dawn, make sure doors and windows have intact screens and remove standing water from items such as birdbaths, old tires, wheelbarrows and wading pools.
Repel mosquitoes: Wear long sleeves, long pants, socks and shoes outdoors. Use an EPA-registered insect repellent according to its label instructions.
Report risk areas and wildlife: Notify local officials about stagnant water in public areas. Perry County residents may also report sick or dead crows, blue jays, robins and other perching birds to the health department.
More information is available by calling the Perry County Health Department at 618-357-5371 or visiting perryhealth.net.
