Frequently Asked Questions

Viruses and bacteria can cause encephalitis (an inflammation of the brain) in humans and animals. West Nile encephalitis is a mosquito-borne infection of the brain caused by West Nile Virus. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

People get West Nile encephalitis from the bite of a mosquito that is infected-primarily the Culex group of species. The mosquito gets infected by biting a bird that carries the virus. West Nile Virus is not spread by person-to-person contact or directly from birds to people. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

Mosquitoes become infected with West Nile Virus when they feed on infected birds. These infected mosquitoes can then transmit West Nile Virus to humans and to other birds. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

No. Certain animals can also become ill. For example horses can develop encephalitis. Also certain birds, such as crows, blue jays, robins, and some hunting birds, like hawks and falcons. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

Most people who are infected with West Nile Virus have no symptoms or experience a mild illness, with fever and a headache. In some people, West Nile Virus can cause serious disease that affects the brain. It can cause serious neurological damage and be fatal.

Symptoms generally occur 3 to 5 days following the bite of an infected mosquito and range from slight fever, headache, rash, swollen lymph nodes and conjunctivitis (irritation of the eye), to rapid onset of a severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, disorientation, muscle weakness, coma or death. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

The fatality rate is 3% to 15% of people infected. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

It is limited to persons in areas where there is virus activity, and is higher in persons 50 years of age or older. A 1999 survey of residents living in the most affected area of New York City showed that about 3% of the residents had been infected, and had either no illness or only mild illness. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

There is no specific therapy. In severe cases, supportive therapy-hospitalization, IV fluids, airway management, prevention of secondary infections (pneumonia) and nursing care-is needed. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

There is no human vaccine at this time. There is a vaccine for horses, so consult with your veterinarian if you would like to vaccinate your horses. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

Illness related to mosquito bites are rare. However, see a doctor immediately if you develop symptoms such as, high fever, confusion, muscle weakness or severe headaches. People with mild symptoms are likely to recover completely and do not require any medication or lab testing. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

Crows, blue jays, and robins seem to be sensitive to West Nile Virus and provide an early warning system for detection of West Nile Virus activity. If a dead crow, blue jay, or robin is found between May 1 and October 15 and appears to have died of natural causes, please report to the Woodford County Health Department. We will be keeping a log of dead birds and locations.

We will also be sending in up to 10 birds (crows, blue jays, robins or other perching birds) for testing. Any birds submitted for testing must be dead less than 48 hours. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

Elimination of breeding sites:
-Change the water in bird baths and toddler pools weekly
-Cover hot tubs, boats, canoes when not in use
-Get rid of old tires
-Maintain swimming pools
-Municipalities should consider applying larvicides in storm sewers in areas active with West Nile Virus
-Put goldfish or bubblers in ornamental ponds
-Store buckets, pet bowls, any containers, inside

Protect self and others from bites:
-Alert health authorities to potential breeding sites in your area
-Apply insect repellents containing Deet to clothing and skin, follow label directions
-Avoid activities in areas where mosquitoes are present
-Maintain window and door screens in your home
-Report dead birds to the Health Department
-Wear long-sleeved shirt and pants when outdoors

Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

The Illinois Medicaid program is facilitated through the Department of Human Services. As Woodford County no longer has a DHS office, clients may go to the DHS office of their choice. The Woodford County Health Department no longer has staff available to assist clients with signing up for insurance. Visit the link below for more information on where and how to sign up for health insurance.

The Link program (food stamps) is facilitated by the Department of Human Services. Click the link below to be directed to the DHS website for more information.

Plats can be dropped off to be signed anytime during regular business hours. Plats will be reviewed and signed as schedules allow and you will be notified when the plat has been signed and is ready to be picked up. If you would like to make an appointment to have your plat signed while you wait, please contact our office at 309-467-3064 ext 4706.

Answers to common questions about mold can be found at the link below or www.epa.gov/mold

The Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program offers free mammograms, breast exams, pelvic exams and Pap tests to eligible women. Even if a woman has already been diagnosed with cancer, she may receive free treatment if she qualifies. The program has been providing breast and cervical cancer screenings to the women of Illinois since 1995. To enroll in IBCCP, women can call the Women’s Health Line 888-522-1282 (800-547-0466 TTY). The Women’s Health Line will be able to walk women through the eligibility requirements and the screening process. (taken from the website of the IL Breast & Cervical Cancer Program)