The Rock Island Health Department says a batch of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile virus, marking the first such positive result in 2024.
The county's health department has several mosquito traps and collects dead birds submitted for West Nile testing. Birds hit by cars or fly into buildings are not eligible for testing. Sick and dying birds should be reported to the health department by calling 309-558-2840.
The West Nile virus is transmitted through mosquito bites that feed on infected birds. Common symptoms include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches, lasting a few days to a few weeks. However, four out of five people infected with the virus will not show any symptoms. People older than 50 and immunocompromised are at higher risk for severe illness from West Nile.
The department asks residents to remove standing water to avoid mosquitos breeding nearby.
Additional information on the West Nile virus can be found on the Illinois Department of Public Health's website.