STERLING, Ill. — A dead bird found near Sterling has tested positive for West Nile virus, according to the Whiteside County Health Department.
Officials said the bird was collected on May 31. Mosquitoes can transmit the virus to humans if they have contracted it from feeding on an infected bird.
To prevent catching the virus from mosquitos, the health department recommends implementing the "three R's": reduce, repel and report.
Reducing exposure can be done by limiting time outside when mosquitoes are active. The insects are most prevalent between dusk and dawn.
Other methods to avoid mosquitoes include making sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens and eliminating sources of standing water such as bird baths, flowerpots, old tires and other receptacles. Mosquitoes breed near this environment.
Mosquitoes can be repelled by wearing shoes and socks, along with long pants and a long-sleeved shirt while outdoors. Insect repellants that contain DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR 3535 should be used as well.
Lastly, the Whiteside County Health Department is also asking people to report sick or dying birds in the community so they can be tested for the virus.
More information on steps to prevent contracting the virus can be found here on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website.
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