Bird in Crystal Lake Tests Positive for West Nile Virus

A robin found in Crystal Lake has tested positive for West Nile virus, according to the McHenry County Department of Health. 

As of July 16, there have been five positive mosquito batches reported in McHenry County but no human cases of West Nile Virus.  According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), 17 other counties have reported positive bird and mosquito batches but no human cases so far this year. 

• READ MORE: Mosquitos Test Positive for West Nile in Kane County

WNV is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. 

Illness from West Nile virus is usually mild and includes fever, headache and body aches but serious illnesses, such as encephalitis and meningitis and death, are possible.  Symptoms may last from a few days to a few weeks.  Persons 50 and older have the highest risk of severe disease. 

The risk of disease from West Nile virus remains until the first hard frost. The best way to prevent WNV is to reduce the number of mosquito breeding sites around your home and to take personal precautions. 

• Empty standing water from containers around the house; make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens
• Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk, dawn); use insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus; wear long sleeved shirts and long pants for extra protection.

For more information on WNV, visit www.mcdh.info (Environmental Health) or call 815-334-4585.

Source: McHenry County Department of Health