The Montgomery County Health Department is reporting that the first West Nile Virus positive mosquito was collected in Nokomis on September 20.

To date, West Nile positive birds, mosquitoes, and/or human cases have been reported by the Illinois Department of Public Health in 55 counties. The Department of Public Health has also reported that the first West Nile Virus related death occurred in Kankakee County.

Due to the ongoing threat of the virus, area residents must remain vigilant and protect themselves. According to the Department of Public Health, the best way to prevent West Nile disease or any other mosquito-borne illness is to reduce the number of mosquitos around your home, and to take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Additional Information about West Nile virus can be found on the Illinois Department of Public Health's website. Dead birds or standing water can be reported by calling the Montgomery County Health Department at 532-2001.