ELDORADO – Mosquito batches in Gallatin and Saline counties have tested positive for the West Nile Virus according to the Egyptian Health Department.
Surveillance for the virus began in May. It included trapping and testing adult mosquitoes throughout Saline, Gallatin and White counties.
The virus is transmitted through the bite of culex mosquitoes that have picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. These mosquitoes breed in warm, stagnant water and begin to increase in numbers early in the summer.
People infected with the virus may become ill 3 to 14 days after the bite of an infected mosquito. Illness from West Nile is usually mild and includes fever, headache and body aches, but serious illness and death are possible. People older than 50 years of age have the highest risk of serious illness.
To find out what you can do to prevent getting West Nile virus, go to the Illinois Department of Public Health’s website or contact the Egyptian Health Department with questions or to report potential mosquito breeding sites.
