Bird found near Sterling tests positive for West Nile virus

STERLING, Ill. (WIFR) – A local health department is warning people to exercise caution ahead of peak mosquito season after a dead bird tested positive for West Nile virus.

The Whiteside County Health Department reports the bird was found May 31 near Sterling.

Health experts say mosquitoes become infected with West Nile virus or WNV by feeding on infected birds and can transmit the virus to humans and animals through their bite. To protect themselves, they encourage people to practice the three “Rs”: reduce, push back and report.

Reduce exposure

● Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active, especially between dusk and dawn.

● Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens and repair or replace any that have tears or openings.

● Try to keep doors and windows closed, especially at night

● Get rid of all sources of standing or stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed, such as flower pots, wading pools, old tires, clogged gutters and old boats. Change birdbath water weekly

Repel

● Wear shoes and socks, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors.

● Use an insecticide containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR 3535 according to label directions when outdoors. Ask a doctor before using repellents on infants

Report

● Report dead birds to your local health department

● If your community has an organized mosquito control program, contact your local government about areas of standing water in roadside ditches, flooded yards, and similar places that may produce mosquitoes.

According to the Whiteside County Health Department, August and September are typically when WNV activity is at its peak. However, he reminds that the threat of WNV can persist until the first frosts.

For more information about WNV or other mosquito-borne illnesses, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health website or the Centers for Disease Control website.

Copyright 2024 WIFR. All rights reserved.