METAMORA, Ill. – The Woodford County Health Department reported its first case of the year of a bird testing positive for West Nile virus in the county on Thursday.
WCHD says a dead Blackbird found in Metamora tested positive for the virus.
The health department does surveillance to monitor birds and mosquitoes that can potentially carry the virus.
West Nile virus can be transmitted to humans through mosquitoes that have fed on a bird that had the virus.
Residents are encouraged to report dead birds to the health department for testing during normal business hours, the WCHD says.
Testing for West Nile virus is being conducted from May 1 to October 15. Woodford County Health Department can test up to 10 birds a year.
Common symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, nausea, headaches and muscle aches. Symptoms can last several days or weeks. Some people never experience symptoms.
To help stop the spread of West Nile virus, WCHS suggests everyone reduce their exposure to mosquitoes, use repellents that contain DEET, and report standing water that can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
To learn more about West Nile virus from the Woodford County Health Department, click HERE.
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