Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has announced that the first bird to test positive for West Nile virus in Illinois for 2024 was found in Douglas County. The specimen was collected in Villa Grove on April 2 by Douglas County Health Department staff. This early detection of the virus comes after a mild winter and spring.

IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra emphasized the importance of taking precautions against mosquito-borne diseases, stating, “The news of the first bird with West Nile virus so early in the season is a signal for Illinois residents to begin protecting themselves – and their horses - from vector-borne diseases.” He urged the public to protect themselves by wearing insect repellent and eliminating standing water around their homes to prevent mosquito breeding. Dr. Vohra also highlighted the importance of vaccinating horses against West Nile virus.

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, with common symptoms including fever, nausea, headache, and muscle aches. While most people infected with the virus do not show symptoms, severe illness can occur, especially in individuals over 60 and those with weakened immune systems.

In 2023, 67 Illinois counties reported cases of West Nile virus, with 119 human cases and six deaths recorded. IDPH notes that human cases are often underreported, emphasizing the need for vigilance in preventing the spread of the virus.

To combat the spread of West Nile virus, IDPH encourages the public to follow the three “R’s”:

- REDUCE: Ensure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens and eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed.

- REPEL: Wear protective clothing and use EPA-registered insect repellents when outdoors.

- REPORT: Inform local health departments of stagnant water sources for larvicide treatment.

For more information and data on West Nile virus, visit IDPH’s West Nile virus website and the West Nile virus Dashboard.