Health Department begins testing for West Nile Virus
Lincoln Courier
Logan County Department of Public Health is encouraging the public to "Fight the Bite" with mosquitoes.
In a press statement by Ryan Williams, director of environmental health at LCDPH, said while the concerns of the pandemic continues there is another threat the public should not overlook.
"This is the time of year, as the weather warms, when mosquitoes become more active. This increased activity means that people will be at risk for becoming infected with the West Nile Virus (WNV). West Nile encephalitis is an infection of the brain caused by the WNV which is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. In addition to WNV, mosquitoes also carry the virus capable of transmitting other forms of encephalitis such as Lacrosse and St. Louis," wrote Williams.
He provided ways the public can protect themselves from getting the WNV virus.
"Avoid the outdoors when mosquitoes are most active, especially between dusk and dawn. When outdoors, wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors so light-colored clothing is preferred," wrote Williams
"Apply insect repellent which includes DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Contact a physician before using repellents on infants and always follow the label instructions. Eliminate ways for mosquitoes to gain entry into your home. Be sure screens that protect doors and windows are tight-fitting, free of tears and are in good repair," wrote Williams.
"Eliminate all sources of standing water that can support mosquito breeding such as flower pots, clogged gutters, old tires, unused wading pools and other receptacles. Bird bath water should be replaced weekly. To report public tire dump sites, abandoned pools, areas of standing water in roadside ditches, flooded yards or similar conditions which may produce mosquitoes, you can contact your local municipality or the Logan County Department of Public Health," he continued.
For those who have been bitten by a mosquito Williams says there isn't a need to be tested for WNV unless those develop symptoms of high fever, confusion, muscle weakness or severe headaches.
William advises those who develop the symptoms to visit the doctor.
LCDPH will start testing dead birds to track the WNV activity.
"If you see a bird that has been dead less than 24 hours or appears to have died of natural causes, please contact the health department to see if it qualifies for free testing. In addition to collecting birds, the health department will be trapping and testing mosquito pools for WNV activity during much of the summer."
A grant from the Illinois Department of Public heath makes these services possible. For those who have questions regarding prevention of mosquito-related diseases or would like more information, can visit the LCDPH website at WWW.LCDPH.ORG or contact the department at 217-735-2317.
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