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 The finch was collected in Lincoln. West Nile encephalitis is an
infection of the brain caused by the WNV which is transmitted
through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Logan County is one of the latest counties to report WNV activity.
To date in Illinois for 2015, approximately 49 counties have
reported WNV activity which includes 3 human cases and no deaths. In
2014, a total of 44 human cases and 4 deaths were reported.
 This is a reminder that even though summer is coming to an end,
mosquitoes can remain active when temperatures are above 60 degrees
F and activity will usually persist until the first hard frost.
Because of the existing threat, the LCDPH would like to remind
everyone the best way to prevent WNV disease is to reduce the number
of mosquitoes around your home and to use personal protection. The
department would like to urge you to practice the three “R’s” –
reduce, repel and report.
- Do reduce your exposure by avoid being outdoors when
mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn. Repair screens
with tears or any other outer openings. Keep windows shut and
eliminate areas of standing water around your property where
mosquitoes can breed.
- Do repel mosquitoes from biting when outdoors by wearing
shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt (light-colored
clothing is preferred). Wear repellents that contain DEET,
picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR 3535 and use according
to the label instructions.
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- Do report dead birds to the Logan County Department of
Public Health. If the bird is dead less than 24 hours and has
appeared to die of natural causes, it may be eligible for
testing. Bird specimens will be accepted for testing until
October 15th. In addition, contact the health department or your
local municipality to report any stagnant water in roadside
ditches, abandoned pools, flooded yards or similar locations
that may provide breeding sites for mosquitoes.
If you are bitten by a mosquito, there is no reason to be
tested for WNV since illnesses related to mosquito bites are
rare. However, if you develop symptoms such as high fever,
confusion, muscle weakness or severe headache, you should see
your doctor.
Remember to play it safe and to continue to take preventative
measures until mosquito activity fully ceases. If you would like
more information regarding WNV, you can contact the Logan County
Department of Public Health at 217-735-2317 or log onto their
website at www.lcdph.org.
[Don Cavi, Public Health
Administrator,
Logan County Department of Public Health] |
