West Nile virus activity
detected in Logan County
Send a link to a friend
[August 05, 2017] LINCOLN
- The Logan County Department of Public Health (LCDPH) collected and
tested a mosquito batch in the Mt. Pulaski, IL area on August 3, 2017,
which tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). This is a reminder that
WNV is in the area and still a concern throughout the remainder of the
summer and fall. West Nile encephalitis is an infection of the brain
caused by the WNV which is transmitted through the bite of an infected
mosquito.
|
The Logan County Department of Public Health 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 Logan County Department of Public Health 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.
![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2017/Aug/05/images/ads/current/elkhart_grain_daily_sda_022614.png)
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.
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.
[to top of second column] |
![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2017/Jan/26/images/ads/current/Symphony_lda_2017.png)
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 have questions regarding WNV, you can
contact the Logan County Department of Public Health at 217-735-2317. For
additional information regarding the West Nile Virus please visit our website at
WWW.LCDPH.ORG.
[Kara A. Davis, RN, BSN
Director of Nursing/Assistant Administrator
Logan County Department of Public Health]
![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2017/Aug/05/images/ads/current/graue_17_malibu_071717.png) |