
July 6, 2023 – The Macon Mosquito Abatement District discovered the first West Nile-positive mosquitoes yesterday, joining 8 other Illinois counties that have discovered the diseased pests this year.
Batches of mosquitoes from an MMAD trap tested positive for West Nile virus on July 5. 108 tests have been performed this year, and yesterday’s had the first positive result. MMAD suggests residents take precautions to drain sources of standing water to minimize mosquito bites and disease transmission risk.
WNV is most spread by a bite from a positive mosquito. Cases usually occur around May through August. Jason Probus, MMAD’s District Director, said he encourages residents to use insect repellent and avoid peak mosquito feeding times during dusk and dawn
“We expect to see mosquito populations increase in the coming days due to recent rain events in the area,” Probus said in a press release. “Look around your own backyard and rid sources of standing water—if it can hold water, it can breed mosquitoes.”
For more information about West Nile Virus prevention and continued updates, click HERE to visit MMAD’s website.
(Story by Ahsaan Spence)