West Nile Virus In Marseilles, Illinois: LaSalle County Issues Health Advisory

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Post on Jul 24, 2025

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West Nile Virus Strikes Marseilles, Illinois: LaSalle County Issues Urgent Health Advisory

Marseilles, Illinois – August 24, 2024 – LaSalle County Health Department (LCHD) issued a health advisory today warning residents of Marseilles, Illinois, about the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV) in the area. The confirmation follows recent mosquito pool testing that revealed positive results for the virus, prompting immediate action to protect public health. This advisory underscores the importance of mosquito control and personal protective measures during peak mosquito season.

The discovery highlights a growing concern regarding the spread of WNV across Illinois. While not uncommon, the presence of the virus in Marseilles necessitates increased vigilance from residents. The LCHD is working diligently to monitor the situation and implement preventative strategies.

<h3>Understanding the West Nile Virus Threat</h3>

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 most people infected with WNV experience no symptoms, others may develop fever, headache, body aches, skin rash, and swollen lymph nodes. In rare cases, WNV can lead to serious neurological illness such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). These severe cases can be life-threatening, particularly for elderly individuals or those with compromised immune systems.

<h3>LaSalle County's Response to the WNV Outbreak</h3>

The LCHD is taking several steps to address the WNV threat in Marseilles:

• Increased Mosquito Surveillance: The county is intensifying mosquito trapping and testing efforts to monitor the virus's spread and identify high-risk areas.
• Public Awareness Campaign: The LCHD is launching a public awareness campaign to educate residents about WNV prevention and protection. This includes distributing informational materials and utilizing local media outlets.
• Mosquito Control Measures: The county is collaborating with local municipalities to implement mosquito control measures, including larviciding (treating standing water to kill mosquito larvae) and adulticide spraying (killing adult mosquitoes). Specific spraying locations and schedules will be announced as needed.

<h3>Protecting Yourself from West Nile Virus</h3>

Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is crucial to preventing WNV infection. The LCHD strongly recommends the following precautions:

• Use EPA-registered insect repellents: Apply repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), or para-menthane-diol (PMD) according to product instructions. [Link to EPA website on insect repellents]
• Wear protective clothing: When outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk (peak mosquito biting times), wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks.
• Install or repair screens on windows and doors: Prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
• Eliminate standing water: Remove sources of standing water around your home, such as flowerpots, birdbaths, and clogged gutters, to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.

<h3>Stay Informed and Take Action</h3>

The LaSalle County Health Department urges residents of Marseilles and surrounding areas to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families from West Nile Virus. For more information and updates on the situation, visit the LCHD website: [Link to LCHD website]. You can also contact the LCHD directly at [Phone number] with any questions or concerns. Staying informed and taking preventative measures is key to minimizing the risk of WNV infection. Your health and safety are our top priority.