Kankakee, IL – Kankakee County health officials confirmed today that the first group of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile virus this season, sparking increased public health awareness across Illinois.
According to the Kankakee County Health Department, a pool of mosquitoes collected from a local trap was found to carry the West Nile virus. The discovery, announced Wednesday, marks the county’s initial positive result for 2025. The Illinois Department of Public Health has reported 30 counties statewide with West Nile-positive mosquito samples so far this year.
West Nile virus is spread through the bite of infected Culex pipiens mosquitoes, known as the northern house mosquito. People are most at risk when mosquitoes feed after biting infected birds. Symptoms of West Nile virus can include fever, headache, nausea, and muscle aches, with some cases lasting several days to weeks. However, officials emphasize that four out of five infected individuals may not exhibit any symptoms. Those over age 60 or with weakened immune systems are considered at higher risk for severe illness.
Health officials urge residents to follow the “Three R’s” for protection:
- Reduce: Eliminate standing water and ensure screens on doors and windows are secure to keep mosquitoes out.
- Repel: Wear shoes, socks, long sleeves, and pants outdoors, and use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR 3535 as directed.
- Report: Notify authorities of locations with stagnant water lasting over a week, such as roadside ditches or flooded yards, which could serve as mosquito breeding grounds.
For more information about West Nile virus prevention and symptoms, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health’s website.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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