West Nile virus positively identified in Gibson City

FORD COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) — A positive case of West Nile virus has been found in a dead bird in Gibson City. According to the Ford County Public Health Department, the sample was detected on Sept. 13.

Officials in Ford County say there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of catching West Nile virus.

First, you can limit your exposure to mosquitos by staying indoors around dusk and dawn, eliminating standing bodies of water and keep your doors shut at night. Second, wear long sleeves and pants, and wear mosquito repellent. Third, if your community has a mosquito control program, report stagnant water to your local government.

“The positive bird is an indication that West Nile virus is circulating in our area and individuals should take appropriate preventive measures to protect their health,” Nancy Mandamuna, the environmental health specialist for the Ford County Public Health Department said.

The health department says symptoms include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches, but that four out of five people who have been infected with West Nile do not have any symptoms. They also add that people older than 50 are at a higher risk for severe illness.

They ask that if you find a bird that appears to have died from natural causes from now until Oct. 15 to report it to the Ford County Public Health Department at 217-379-9281.

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