DECATUR, IL- The Macon County Health Department (MCHD) has received confirmation of the first mosquito batches of the season to test positive for West Nile virus. The positive mosquito batches were collected by the Macon Mosquito Abatement District (MMAD) using a gravid mosquito trap.

At this time, there are no confirmed human cases of West Nile virus in Macon County.

To date, the MMAD has tested 259 mosquito samples, with two testing positive for West Nile virus. While the current risk of infection remains low, residents are encouraged to take preventive measures by eliminating standing water around their homes and protecting themselves from mosquito bites.

Mosquitoes breed in standing water and are attracted to bare skin and dark-colored clothing. One of the most effective ways to reduce mosquito populations is to routinely inspect your property and remove standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs.

Residents are encouraged to follow the Four D's to reduce their risk of mosquito bites:

Drain – Empty standing water every 5–7 days from items such as bird baths, flowerpot saucers, kiddie pools, buckets, tarps, and other containers that collect water.

Dress – Wear long sleeves, long pants, and light-colored, loose-fitting clothing when outdoors.

Defend – Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone. Oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol should not be used on children younger than 3 years of age. Insect repellents are not recommended for infants younger than 2 months. Consult your healthcare provider before using insect repellents on young children and infants.

Dusk & Dawn – Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, whenever possible.

The MMAD continues daily surveillance throughout the district and routinely treats standing water where mosquito larvae and pupae are found. Staff also inspect neglected swimming pools, ornamental ponds, open containers, and other potential breeding sites. If you are aware of standing water that has remained for three or more days, please contact the MMAD at (217) 875-2722. If the location is outside the MMAD service area, staff will refer you to the appropriate agency.

The MCHD also conducts surveillance for West Nile virus through testing of dead birds. Birds submitted for testing must be fully intact and free from decomposition or insect infestation. To report a dead bird, please call the Macon County Health Department at (217) 423-6988 ext. 1134.

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