Another West Nile-positive mosquito found in Will County

The Will County Health Department confirmed one more West Nile virus-positive mosquito samples for 2021, according to a news release from the health department.

This brings the total to four this year for Will County.

The latest mosquito sample was collected from a Will County Health Department mosquito trap at Central Park in Bolingbrook and confirmed on Friday, the release said.

Last week, samples from two different health department mosquito traps in Bolingbrook were also postive for West Nile. The first sample was collected from a health department mosquito trap in Homer Glen on July 23. The presence of West Nile virus was confirmed on July 26, a news release from the health department said.

The health department has 14 mosquito traps in various regions in Will County, the release said.

Transmission of the West Nile virus is through the culex mosquito after it feeds on an infected bird, such as a blue jay, crow or robin. Individuals most at risk of West Nile virus include those over 60 and those who are immunocompromised.

Symptoms of West Nile virus, which can last several weeks, may include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches, the release said.

Anyone who sees a dead bird on his or her property should contact the health department’s West Nile virus hotline at 815-740-7631. Or e-mail the health department at westnile@willcountyhealth.org.

To help reduce risk the health department suggested one should:

• Eliminate excess standing water around your property where Culex mosquitos often breed, such as children’s wading pools, birdbaths and gutters.

• Avoid being outside between dusk and dawn. These peak mosquito periods between dusk and dawn.

• For those who venture out, wear insect repellent containing DEET as well as long sleeves, long pants, and socks and shoes.