Vector/Pests

Definition

Vector is defined as a disease-carrying insect or organism.

Role of the Tazewell County Health Department

The Tazewell County Health Department collects mosquito samples using Gravid Traps (traps designed to attract and collect egg bearing female mosquitoes) and tests them for West Nile Virus using a technique known as a rapid immunochromatographic assay. This technique involves grinding the mosquitoes in a testing solution and then using a test strip to determine the presence or absence of West Nile Virus. These results are then reported to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

To learn more about West Nile Virus in Illinois go to the Illinois Department of Public Health’s West Nile Virus page. More information can also be found by visiting the Centers for Disease Control’s page on West Nile Virus.