The Montgomery County Health Department is reminding residents to take precautions against mosquito bites after routine testing identified multiple mosquito samples positive for West Nile Virus.

According to Environmental Health Director Cyndy Howard, positive samples have been collected in Nokomis on July 10th, Farmersville on July 15th, 20th and 22nd, Taylor Springs on August 3rd, and Witt on July 17th.

Health officials say the frequent West Nile Virus activity is a reminder to eliminate potential mosquito breeding areas and protect yourself from mosquito bites while outdoors.

Residents are encouraged to report potential breeding sites so they can be investigated and treated if necessary. In communities with organized mosquito control programs, reports can be made to the local municipal hall. Other potential breeding sites can be reported to the Montgomery County Health Department.

The health department also has a limited supply of BTI briquettes available for county residents to treat mosquito breeding areas on their own properties.

West Nile Virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people who become infected do not develop symptoms, but illness can include fever, headache and body aches. More serious complications, including encephalitis and meningitis, are possible, particularly for people over the age of 50.

The Montgomery County Health Department has been conducting West Nile surveillance since May by trapping and testing adult mosquitoes. Despite the health department not testing dead birds this year, residents who observe a sick or recently dead crow, blue jay, robin or other perching bird are still encouraged to report it to the health department for monitoring purposes. 

To make a sick or dead bird report, call the health department at 217-532-2001.

Additional details on the West Nile virus can be found online at idph.state.il.us.

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