potential disease vector serveillance
west nile virus surveillance:
The West Nile Virus is commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. We monitor mosquito populations by testing mosquitoes and dead birds for West Nile Virus. For more detailed information on West Nile Virus visit: West Nile Virus (WNV) (illinois.gov)
symptoms, diagnosis & treatment
- The vast majority of individuals infected with West Nile Virus will NEVER develop any symptoms of illness (asymptomatic).
- About 1 in 5 people infected with West Nile Virus will develop MILD symptoms including : fever, headache, body aches, rash, vomiting
- In rare cases (about 1 in 150) persons infected with West Nile Virus develop SEVERE symptoms such as: high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis
- If you believe you or a family member have West Nile Virus, contact your health care provider.
- For more detailed information, including diagnosis and treatment options, visit: Symptoms, Diagnosis, & Treatment | West Nile Virus | CDC
how you can help stop west nile virus
Remove Standing Water Where Mosquitoes Lay Eggs
Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out any items that hold water like tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpot saucers, or trash containers. Clean debris out of gutters.
Keep Mosquitoes Off
Wear long sleeves, long pants and socks.
Keep windows and door screens repaired.
Use Insect Repellent Properly (EPA link for using insect repellents safely) Using Insect Repellents Safely and Effectively | US EPA
By reporting dead birds to local health departments, you can play an important role in monitoring for West Nile Virus. There is no cost to you for reporting a dead bird.
The testing period for dead birds is May 1 to October 15.
Found specimens only may be tested if the bird has been dead for less than 48 hrs. and there is no sign of decay or obvious injury.
If you discover a dead bird after 4:00 p.m. Monday - Friday, or on a weekend/holiday refrigerate the bird and call our office at (217) 245-5111 the next business day.
other Educational resources:
- How to prevent mosquito & tick bites: Fight the Bite! Prevent Mosquito and Tick Bites | Division of Vector-Borne Diseases | NCEZID | CDC