West Nile Virus Found in Oswego Mosquitoes

The Illinois Department of Public Health reported Thursday that mosquitoes collected in Oswego on Tuesday tested positive for the West Nile virus.

This, along with those tested in Evergreen Park, were the first positive results in northern Illinois this year.

“We are starting to see West Nile virus in mosquitoes and birds, and when temperatures rise and conditions dry up, we typically see increased reports of West Nile virus,” said Dr. Damon Arnold. “To protect yourself against illness, wear insect repellent and get rid of any stagnant water around your home to reduce the number of mosquitoes.”

The village is being sprayed two to three nights a week for mosquitoes and catch basins are being treated with tablets, according to an employee of the village's Public Works Department.

The first positive mosquitoes in the state were found in Tazewell County on June 8.

A total of 62 human cases of West Nile disease were reported in the state last year. Just five were reported in 2009. The most on record was 884 in 2002.

According to the state, “West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has been infected with the virus by feeding on an infected bird. Most people with the virus have no clinical symptoms of illness, but some may become ill three to 15 days after the bite of an infected mosquito.

“Only about two people in 10 who are bitten by an infected mosquito will experience any illness. Illness from West Nile is usually mild and includes fever, headache and body aches, but serious illness such as encephalitis, meningitis and death are possible."

Those older than 50 are at greatest risk for the disease, the department said.