CHRISTIAN COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) — Christian County had their first West Nile Virus (WNV) positive mosquito sample of the 2026 season Wednesday.
The Christian County Health Department said the mosquitos sampled were collected on July 20 in Taylorville.
This comes after two batches of Champaign County mosquitos tested positive for the virus on Monday.
According to the weekly WNV report released by the Illinois Department of Public Health, there have been no human cases of the virus in the state during the 2026 season.
The health department said the recent warm, humid temperatures have created ideal conditions for mosquito populations in the area.
"Our environmental health staff conducts mosquito surveillance throughout the season so we can identify West Nile Virus activity early and keep the public informed," Public Health Administrator Dr. Chad Anderson said. "This surveillance, combined with community efforts to reduce mosquito breeding and prevent bites, is an important part of protecting public health."
The Christian County Health Department said it will continue to monitor and test mosquitos for WNV throughout the county. Anyone with questions regarding the virus is asked to contact their local health department.
Copyright 2026. WAND TV. All rights reserved.
