West Nile virus found in Bloomington mosquito pool

Posted on June 13, 2018
A mosquito trap, similar to this one set by the McLean County Health Department, turned up West Nile virus on Friday. (McLean County Health Department)

By Greg Halbleib

BLOOMINGTON – Mosquitoes with West Nile virus have been found in Bloomington.

The McLean County Health Department reports the virus was found in a mosquito pool collected from a trap last Friday. Health department staff are going door to door in the area leaving West Nile virus prevention information.

The health department recommends keeping skin covered when outside at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Insect repellant containing DEET is also recommended. The department also encourages residents to make sure windows and doors have screens in good condition, and empty areas that hold water.

Symptoms of West Nile virus disease include slight fever or headache in mild cases, and high fever, disorientation and even paralysis or death in severe infections.

Greg Halbleib can be reached at [email protected]. 

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