West Nile Disease In IllinOis

A batch of mosquitoes was recently sampled on June 16, 2021 in Lake Bluff, Illinois and it tested positive for West Nile Virus. The Illinois Department of Public Health has confirmed these are the first mosquitoes to test positive for West Nile Virus in Illinois for 2021. No cases of human West Nile virus have been reported so far this year.
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. Common symptoms include fever, nausea, headache, and muscle aches. Symptoms can last can a few days to a few weeks.
The first mosquitoes to test positive for West Nile virus in 2020 were collected on May 26, 2020 in Naperville, Illinois.  Last year, 26 counties in Illinois reported a West Nile virus positive mosquito batch, bird and/or human case.  IDPH reported 39 human cases (although human cases are underreported), including four deaths.
As a professional mosquito treatment company, Buzz Kill Mosquito Solutions recommends these tips to reduce the risks of West Nile virus and other diseases that can be married and transmitted by mosquitoes:

• Reduce your risk by make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens
• Eliminate all sources of standing water where mosquitoes can breed. Examples of standing water sources that can attract mosquitoes include; bird baths, ponds, flowerpots, wading pools
• When outdoors, wear shoes and socks, long pants, and light-colored clothing
• Have your outdoor space professionally treated for mosquitoes with the help of Buzz Kill Mosquito Solutions