
August 5, 2021 – The Macon Mosquito Abatement District (MMAD) has found the first West Nile virus (WNV) positive mosquitoes within Macon County. As of August 4th, there are 22 other counties reporting positive mosquitoes with one human case reported to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Batches of mosquitoes from a MMAD trap tested positive for West Nile virus on August 5, 2021. Adult Culex mosquitoes are trapped at several sites within the District on a weekly basis then RAMP (Rapid Analyte Measurement Platform) tested. To date, 249 tests have been performed with 1 positive test result. While the risk of being infected with West Nile virus is low at this time, the MMAD recommends that residents act proactively to rid sources of standing water and take personal protection measures to minimize mosquito bites and the risk of disease transmission.
The MMAD encourages residents to use insect repellent, wear loose fitting clothing and avoid peak mosquito feeding times during the hours around dusk and dawn. Jason Probus, District Director, asked for community support: “Mosquito abatement, much like other forms of public health infrastructure, is a combined community effort. Look around your own back yard and rid sources of standing water- If it can hold water, it can breed mosquitoes. In addition, if you will be outdoors, choose a mosquito repellent that is EPA approved and works for you and your family. Keep in mind that children shouldn’t use more than 30% DEET and repellents aren’t recommended for a child younger than 2 months of age”.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States. It is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Cases of WNV occur most during peak summer months and continues through the fall.