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THE FOLLOWING IS A VERMILION COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT RELEASE
A bird collected in Westville on Aug. 9 has tested positive for West Nile Virus. This is the first bird that has tested positive in Vermilion County this year.The Vermilion County Health Department is allowed to submit up to five birds this year to the University of Illinois’ Veterinary School laboratory to be tested for the virus. So far this year, two birds have been submitted for testing. Birds to be submitted for testing must be intact and dead for no more than 24 hours. Birds must not have any signs of decomposition (maggots, ants, strong odor, bloated or deflated eyes) and must not show any obvious signs of trauma. If a bird is not collected for testing, VCHD is still tracking the locations of dead birds. To report a dead bird, found in Vermilion County, call the Vermilion County Health Department at (217) 431-2662, Ext. 5.
“This is another reminder that West Nile Virus is out there, and proper precautions need to be taken,” said interim public health administrator Jana Messmore. “This would be a good time to ensure you aren’t providing mosquitoes with optimal breeding grounds by removing any standing water from your property.”
In order to control mosquito populations, it is important to remove their breeding grounds by removing empty planters and containers (tires), keeping gutters clean, removing abandoned swimming pools and removing any ponding or accumulating standing water. Ensure bird baths are properly maintained.
To decrease your chance of contracting WNV, it is recommended to avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active, especially between dusk and dawn. When outdoors, wear shoes and socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt, and apply insect repellent that includes DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to label instructions. Consult a physician before using repellents on infants. It’s also important to ensure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens.
VCHD reported its first batch of mosquitoes that tested positive for West Nile Virus earlier this month.
