LaSalle County Health Alert: West Nile Virus Positive Mosquitoes Found In Marseilles

3 min read Post on Jul 24, 2025

LaSalle County Health Alert: West Nile Virus Positive Mosquitoes Found in Marseilles

LaSalle County, Illinois residents urged to take precautions after West Nile Virus confirmed in Marseilles.

LaSalle County Health Department (LCHD) issued a health alert on August 24, 2023, confirming the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV) in mosquitoes collected in Marseilles, Illinois. This alarming discovery underscores the importance of community vigilance and proactive measures to prevent the spread of this potentially dangerous virus. Residents are urged to take immediate steps to protect themselves and their families.

Understanding the West Nile Virus Threat

West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause a range of symptoms, from mild flu-like illness to severe neurological complications. While many infected individuals experience no symptoms, others may develop fever, headache, body aches, skin rash, and swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases, WNV can lead to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord), potentially resulting in long-term health problems or even death. The elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe complications.

What LaSalle County is Doing

The LCHD is actively monitoring the situation and working to control mosquito populations through various methods, including:

Larviciding: Applying larvicides to standing water sources where mosquitoes breed.
Adult Mosquito Control: Utilizing adulticides to reduce the adult mosquito population.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about WNV prevention and control measures.

The county is also collaborating with local municipalities and community partners to coordinate efforts and ensure a comprehensive response to the threat.

Protecting Yourself from West Nile Virus

The best way to protect yourself from West Nile Virus is to reduce your exposure to mosquitoes. Here are some key precautions you should take:

Use Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin. Always follow the product label instructions.
Wear Protective Clothing: When outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks.
Eliminate Breeding Grounds: Remove standing water from your property, including flower pots, birdbaths, and clogged gutters. Change the water in pet dishes regularly.
Repair Screens: Ensure that window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
Consider Professional Mosquito Control: If you have a persistent mosquito problem on your property, consider contacting a professional pest control service.

Stay Informed and Take Action

The LCHD encourages all LaSalle County residents, particularly those in the Marseilles area, to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from West Nile Virus. Regularly check the LaSalle County Health Department website for updates and further information. You can also follow their social media channels for timely alerts and public health announcements.

For more information on West Nile Virus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website: [link to CDC website]

Remember: Your proactive efforts can make a significant difference in reducing the risk of WNV infection. Stay informed, take precautions, and protect your community.