West Nile Virus Confirmed in Stephenson County

Make sure to be extra cautious this season, the first West Nile case has been confirmed.

West Nile is spread from birds, to mosquitoes to humans. It can cause flu like symptoms to those with the virus and in some cases can result in death.

Winnebago and Ogle counties have already confirmed cases of the virus in birds this year.

The latest county that has confirmed case of West Nile is Stephenson County.

WTVO reports that a bird found on July 7th inside Lena city limits and tested positive for West Nile.

The county has also trapped and tested 30 batches of mosquitoes, none of which have tested positive.

What can you do to protect yourself from West Nile besides putting on bug spray?

The Mayo Clinic offers these helpful tips and more at MayoClinic.org.

• Eliminate standing water in your yard. Mosquitoes breed in pools of standing water.
• Remove old tires or any unused containers that might hold water and serve as a breeding place for mosquitoes.
• Avoid unnecessary outdoor activity when mosquitoes are most prevalent, such as at dawn, dusk and early evening.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when you go into mosquito-infested areas.