According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention, mosquitoes are responsible for more deaths than any other animal. These tiny insects transmit serious diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and the West Nile virus.
The Rock Island County Health Department has recently announced that a group of mosquitoes in the local area have been found to carry the West Nile virus.
The number of human cases reported in the state of Illinois so far is just five, and there have been no human cases reported in Rock Island County specifically. Therefore, there is no reason for the public to panic.
According to experts, approximately one in 150 individuals who are affected will experience a severe illness, while a staggering 80% of those infected will not exhibit any symptoms whatsoever.
The Rock Island County Health Department provides us with further information on how the contraction process occurs.
According to Meghan Carr, a Sanitarian at the Rock Island County Health Department, it is the birds that carry the virus. Mosquitoes can contract the virus from the birds through their blood, and then transfer it to humans through contact. To determine the prevalence of the virus, dead birds are collected and tested, along with the use of mosquito traps for surveillance in vector control.
If you come across any deceased birds in your vicinity, you have the option to report them for testing to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
While most cases do not exhibit any symptoms, there are certain signs you can watch out for and precautionary measures you can take to avoid exposure.
To minimize your exposure to mosquitoes, it is recommended to limit your time outdoors during dusk and dawn. Additionally, make sure to eliminate any standing water on your property and ensure that your windows and doors have properly fitting screens.
The virus has the potential to cause aches, pains, and fevers, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems. However, there are measures you can take to safeguard yourself.
According to the Rock Island County Health Department, if you are exposed to a certain situation, here is what you should do.
“If you start experiencing symptoms like feeling sick, having a fever, nausea, or headache, it’s important to consult your doctor. They can help determine the cause of your illness, whether it’s COVID-19 or something like West Nile virus. If you have been in areas with a high mosquito population, it’s possible that mosquitoes could be the source of your illness. It’s especially crucial for individuals with weakened immune systems to take extra precautions, as they are more susceptible to viruses like this,” Carr advised.
The CDC has provided some helpful suggestions for parents when it comes to children.
Advice for babies and children:
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- Dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs.
- Cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting
When using insect repellent on your child:
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- Always follow label instructions.
- Do not use products containing OLE or PMD on children under 3 years old.
- Do not apply repellent to a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, cuts, or irritated skin.
- Adults: Apply repellent onto your hands and then apply to a child’s face.
To reduce the risk of mosquito bites, the Rock Island Health Department advises wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants and applying bug repellent with DEET.
With summertime weather still in full swing, the health department has stated that there will be an increase in mosquito and viral activity.
If you develop severe symptoms, experts recommend seeking immediate medical attention as there is currently no vaccine available.
