Champaign County bird tests positive for West Nile Virus: CUPHD

Heather Robinson
·1 min read

CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) — A bird in Champaign County tested positive for West Nile Virus, the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District announced in a release Friday.

This case marks the second known appearance of birds with the virus in Central Illinois this month, the first being in Douglas County.

The virus is spread to mosquitos when they feed on an infected bird. Just two weeks ago, a few counties in Illinois confirmed mosquitos had tested positive for the virus.

The CUPHD said it’s important to take precautions in order to limit exposure to the virus through mosquito bites this season.

First West Nile-positive mosquitoes found in Illinois

Here’s how you can stay protected, according to CUPHD:

  • Mosquito-proof your home by installing or repairing window and door screens so that mosquitos can’t get inside

  • Apply insect repellent when outside. The CDC recommends repellent with active ingredients registered with the EPA

  • Wear clothing that prevents exposure to mosquitos when you’re outside, weather permitting, such as long pants, long sleeve shirts and socks. You can also give yourself an extra layer of protection by spraying clothes with EPA-registered repellent, since mosquitos can bite through thinner clothing

  • Drain standing water around your home on a regular basis. This includes pet water dishes, pool covers, buckets, gutters, birdbaths, standing water in flower pots, tires and more

The CUPHD added that mosquitos that are more likely to transmit the virus are most active from dusk to dawn. Therefore, you should take extra care to wear repellent and protective clothing during this time.

More information is available on the CUPHD website here.

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