Each year, we strive to inform residents about personal prevention, which is the first line of defense against West Nile Virus (WNV) or other mosquito-borne diseases or illnesses. Our program staff members also provide WNV training to community officials and leaders throughout Macon County. For more information and/or to inquire about the testing of dead birds for West Nile Virus, please call (217) 423-6988 ext: 1134. For more information about WNV, visit the Macon Mosquito Abatement District (MMAD), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and/or view our brochure here.
Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Being Bitten by a Mosquito:
- If you go outdoors, wear shoes, socks, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants. Loose-fitting, light-colored clothing is best.
- Use insect repellent containing 25-35% DEET when outdoors, applied sparingly to exposed skin or clothing, as indicated on the repellent label.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that repellents used on children contain no more than 10% DEET, the active ingredient in mosquito repellents. Consult your physician before using repellents on young children or infants.
- Make sure window and door screens are “bug-tight.”
- Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening when mosquitoes are most active.