Community Corner

West Nile Virus Found in Lake County

Lake County Health Department reports positive tests for West Nile virus among mosquito batches in Deerfield and Lake Villa Township.

Mosquitoes in Lake County have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), the Lake County Health Department said Wednesday.

Mosquito batches in Deerfield and Lake Villa Township tested positive for WNV last week, marking the first confirmed indications of the disease’s presence in the county this year, according to a release.

"We recommend that residents protect themselves against mosquito bites by reducing their exposure to mosquitoes and wearing insect repellent outdoors," said Tony Beltran, the Health Department's Executive Director.

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In 2012, there were seven human cases, three birds and 98 mosquito pools that tested positive for the virus in the county, the release stated.

The Health Department maintains a West Nile virus hotline, 847-377-8300, for county residents to report areas of stagnant water (which are conducive for mosquito breeding), to report locations of dead birds, or to obtain more information on the signs and symptoms of West Nile encephalitis.

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The Health Department conducts a multi-faceted mosquito surveillance program in Lake County. At each site a batch of mosquitoes is tested weekly for West Nile virus. Areas of stagnant water are also investigated throughout the season for the presence of mosquito larvae, specifically from the Culex mosquito which is the primary carrier of West Nile in Illinois.

The Health Department works closely with the municipalities, townships, and the Lake County Forest Preserve District in monitoring the mosquitoes that may pose a public health threat.


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