MURPHYSBORO – The first batch of mosquitoes positive for West Nile Virus have been found in Jackson County.
According to the Jackson County Health Department, they were found near Murphysboro following routine testing for the virus.
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird.
One out of five people who are bitten by an infected mosquito will experience illness, with symptoms such as fever, nausea, headache, and body aches within 3 to 14 days of the bite. In rare cases, illness such as encephalitis and meningitis, with lingering complications and even death, are possible. Individuals can reduce their risk of West Nile illness and other mosquito-borne diseases by practicing the three “R’s” – Reduce, Repel, Report.
Additional information can be found at jchdonline.org or call 618-684-3143.
