The Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) encourages residents to take steps to prevent tick bites and watch for symptoms of illness after being outside in the yard or walking in wooded or grassy areas. For the first time, ticks from Winnebago County have tested positive for Powassan virus.
There is no vaccine for Powassan virus which can lead to serious health complications impacting the heart, skeletal, and nervous systems. The key is to prevent tick bites.
Health Department News
Hantavirus Update
On May 12, it was reported that a Winnebago County Health Department resident was being tested for a potential case of Hantavirus. Confirmatory testing conducted
May 18, 2026
