Mosquitos in Channahon have tested positive for West Nile Virus

The Grundy County Health Department announced Friday that mosquitos collected in Channahon on Monday, May 19, have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

According to the Friday news release, these are the first mosquito batches to test positive for West Nile Virus in Grundy County this year. Results were confirmed on Wednesday, May 21.

The Illinois Department of Health recommends following the Three R’s of mosquito protection: Reduce, Repel and Report. The actions are as follows:

Reduce Exposure

Avoid being outdoors between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.

Ensure that windows and doors have tight-fitting screens, and repair or replace damaged screens.

Eliminate standing water around the home where mosquitoes can breed. This includes flowerpots, wading pools, old tires and birdbaths.

Repel

When outdoors, wear shoes, socks, long pants and long-sleeved shirts.

Apply insect repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR 3535m following the content label instructions.

Consult a physician before using insect repellents on infants or young children.

Report Potential Breeding Areas

Report standing water in places like roadside ditches, flooded yards and abandoned property to local agencies.

For information, visit dph.illinois.gov.