West Nile Virus is a virus spread through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito. Most people (8 in 10) who are infected with WNV do not experience symptoms. If symptoms are present, mild cases may cause a slight fever or headache. More severe cases of the infection may result in a fast-developing high fever with head and body aches, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, and in some severe cases, paralysis, or death. Symptoms typically occur from three to 14 days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito. People 60 years of age or older are at the highest risk for serious illness associated with WNV. 

While the pool which tested positive was collected in Pekin, mosquitoes can travel up to two miles, so anyone within the vicinity should use precautions. Please be aware that no matter where you live in Tazewell County, mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus can be present. TCHD conducts regular testing of mosquito pools throughout Tazewell County and encourages residents to do what they can to help prevent the spread of WNV. 

For more information on West Nile Virus, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health’s (IDPH) website at https://dph.illinois.gov/. For questions regarding the positive case in Tazewell County or for media inquiries, call JD Raucci at 309-929-0395.