Two More Bolingbrook Mosquitoes Test Positive For West Nile Virus

BOLINGBROOK, IL — Two more mosquitoes, captured in two separate traps in Bolingbrook Wednesday, tested positive for the West Nile Virus, the Will County Health Department confirmed Friday.

Fourteen traps were set around Will County to sample the mosquitoes — the first of which was collected earlier in Homer Glen. The West Nile Virus is transmitted through the bite of a Culex mosquito that picks up the virus by feeding on infected birds.

Common symptoms of the virus in people include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches that can last from a few days to a few weeks. People older than 60 and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for the virus.

So far this year, no people in Illinois have tested positive for the West Nile Virus. Last year, 26 counties in the state reported positive cases for the virus in mosquitoes, birds or people, according to Will County officials. The Illinois Department of Public Health reported 39 cases in humans, including four deaths.

Officials said people should get rid of excess standing water around their houses, which is where Culex mosquitoes most often breed. Other common areas include wading pools, birdbaths and gutters.

If a dead bird is found on someone's property, homeowners are encouraged to call Will County Health Department officials for possible testing. The West Nile Virus hotline can be access at 815-740-7631 or at westnile@willcountyhealth.org.

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