The Village of Tolono has been notified of a suspected case of West Nile Virus.
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a Culex pipiens mosquito, commonly called a house mosquito, which has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. Common symptoms include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches. Symptoms may last from a few days to a few weeks. However, four out of five people infected with West Nile virus will not show any symptoms. In rare cases, severe illness including meningitis or encephalitis, or even death, can occur. People older than 60 and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness from West Nile virus.
The Village of Tolono is calling on the community to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds by emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, containers, tires etc. If you have a swimming pool, either drain it or put the cover on it. If you have a bird bath, change the water regularly.
If you are going to be outside, especially in the evening or early morning, be sure to use insect repellant. If possible wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors. Mosquitos may bite through clothes, so spray your clothes with repellant as well.
If you are going to have your doors and windows open, you should do a screen inspection. Make sure all screens in your home are tight-fitting and free from holes so that mosquitos can not get into your home.
The Village Public Works Department has sprayed for mosquitos throughout the summer, and they are out today spraying as well.
For more information, please see the Champaign County Public Health page at http://www.c-uphd.org/mosquito.html. You may also visit the Tolono Park District Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TolonoParkDistrict/.