Mosquito-Carried Virus Spikes Suddenly Across Illinois

The state of Illinois has raised the warning flags of a mosquito-carried virus that is spreading like wildfire in the state with confirmations of it being present in 17 Illinois counties already.

This urgent bulletin was just issued by the Illinois Department of Public Health. The reason for concern is due to the fact that this virus is spread by mosquitos that are thriving during the blazing hot weather. They're warning that environmental samples from 17 Illinois counties confirm the presence of West Nile Virus.

What are the signs and symptoms of West Nile Virus?

The CDC says you should watch out for "headache, weakness, myalgia, or arthralgia; gastrointestinal symptoms" and they also warn that you should beware of a strange rash also. There is no known cure for West Nile Virus at this time. The only treatment is supportive meaning that patients suffering from diarrhea or sickness are rehydrated. There are also no prevention treatments that will ward off West Nile.

The state of Illinois advises that you make sure your home is equipped with good screen doors to keep mosquitos out if you rely on open air for cooling. Authorities also say that you should avoid keeping any standing water sources near your home that would make for mosquito breeding grounds. The only real way to fight West Nile Virus spread in Illinois is battle the nasty mosquitos.

The irony in Illinois is this warning of the fast spread of West Nile Virus happens during Mosquito Control Awareness Week.