About West Nile Virus
West Nile virus is a disease that is most often spread by certain kinds of mosquitoes, especially Culex mosquitoes. It can make people sick with a fever, and in some cases, it can cause serious problems like swelling in the brain or around the brain and spinal cord. West Nile virus has been found in many parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, the Middle East, India, Asia, and Australia. It was first found in North America in 1999 and has since spread across the United States and Canada.
CDC: West Nile Virus Symptoms, Diagnosis, & Treatment
Prevention
Most people get infected with West Nile virus by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to humans and other animals. In a very small number of cases, West Nile virus has been spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants, and from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.
Researchers have been working on developing a vaccine for people, but so far, none are widely available. The best way to prevent West Nile virus is by avoiding mosquito bites.
- Use insect repellents when you go outdoors. Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products provide longer-lasting protection.
- Wear long sleeves and pants from dusk through dawn when many mosquitoes are most active.
- Install or repair screens on windows and doors. If you have it, use your air conditioning.
- Help reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home. Empty standing water from containers such as flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires, and birdbaths.
CDC: Preventing Mosquito Bites
Kane County Health Department West Nile Program
The Kane County Health Department works year-round to monitor and reduce the risk of West Nile virus in our community. Through mosquito surveillance, testing, public education, and local partnerships, our goal is to protect residents from mosquito-borne illnesses. The data below shows current and historical trends in West Nile virus activity in Kane County, including mosquito testing results and reported human cases.
West Nile Trap Locations in Kane County
Surveillance Data
IDPH: Positive Birds, Mosquitoes, Horses and other Animals by County, 2018 - Current
IDPH: State and County Case Counts, 2001 - Current
