CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) — The dreaded West Nile Virus has made its way to Champaign County, as public health officials announced with certainty on Monday afternoon.
An investigation by the Illinois Department of Public Health has revealed that two mosquito samples collected in Champaign on July 16 returned positive results, indicating the presence of the virus.
The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District took to Facebook to advise residents on proactive measures to safeguard their health. Essential tips include removing stagnant water around properties, ensuring windows and doors have proper screens, and using insect repellents sanctioned by the EPA. Long-sleeved tops, long trousers, and socks are recommended attire, particularly during peak mosquito activity at dawn and dusk.
Champaign County joins the ranks of Ford, Macon, and Vermilion Counties in Central Illinois, all of which confirmed the virus’s presence after conducting mosquito testing just last week.
No humans have tested positive for West Nile Virus yet this year, according to data from the IDPH. Symptoms can include a fever, headaches, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. Rarely, people can develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis. Older adults and those with medical conditions like cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and organ transplants have a greater risk for serious illness.