SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Public Health has reported mosquito batches collected in Freeport in Stephenson County and in Rockford in Winnebago County have tested positive for West Nile virus. A total of 23 birds and 36 mosquito batches in Illinois have tested positive for West Nile virus since surveillance for the mosquito-transmitted virus began May 1.

Because the virus is present in Illinois, Dr. Eric E. Whitaker, state public health director, recommends individuals take a number of precautions to reduce contact with mosquitoes:

• Whenever outdoors between dusk and dawn or when mosquitoes are present, wear shoes and socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Loose-fitting, light colored clothing is best.
• When it is necessary to be outdoors, apply insect repellent as indicated on the repellent label. The more DEET a product contains, the longer the repellant can protect against mosquito bites. However, concentrations higher than 50 percent do not increase the length of protection. For most situations, 10 percent to 25 percent DEET is adequate. Apply repellents to clothes whenever possible; apply sparingly to exposed skin if label permits. Consult a physician before using repellents on young children.
• Check residential screens, including porches and patios, for tears and other openings and repair, as necessary, to prevent mosquito entry.
• Eliminate stagnant water in bird baths, ponds, flowerpots, wading pools, old tires and any other receptacles in which mosquitoes might breed.

Additional information about West Nile virus can be found on the Department’s Web site: www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/wnv.htm or obtained by contacting the Department’s West Nile virus toll-free hotline at 1-866-369-9710.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Additional confirmations of birds identified with West Nile virus will be posted on Tuesdays and Thursdays on the Department's Web site.