Lake County Gazette

Lake County’s Health Department recently notified Highland Park and the surrounding area that a sampling of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile virus in late June, the county’s first confirmation of the disease in 2016. 

In 2015, 68 “pools” (batches) of mosquitoes tested positive along with one bird, and five cases of the disease were reported in humans. The Lake County Health Department's interim director, Mark Pfister, reminded residents that the summer season calls for extra care against insect-borne viruses. 

“This is the time of year when we begin to see mosquito pools testing positive for West Nile virus,”  Pfister, who is currently serving as the Lake County Health Department’s interim leader, said. “Now that hot summer weather is finally here, it is especially important to protect yourself against mosquito bites by following the four D’s.”

Pfister ran down the D's: draining empty water from outdoor containers, dressing to cover up with long-sleeve shirts and pants, dawn and dusk avoidance — staying indoors during early evening and morning hours, and chemical defense, by using DEET-containing insect repellent.

Residents can call Lake County’s virus hotline at 847-377-8300 to report any areas of stagnant water, or to acquire more information on preventive measures, advice and symptoms to look for.

 Many people infected with West Nile virus do not display symptoms or become ill. Vulnerable individuals such as the elderly or very young can experience moderate-to-severe signs, however, including muscle weakness, tremors, stiffness, disorientation, and even encephalitis, coma or death.

The health department works closely with local jurisdictions to monitor virus status. Because mosquitoes also carry Zika, dengue and Chikungunya outside of northeast Illinois, vacationers are advised to take special precautions. 

Travelers can learn more at www.fightthebitenow.com.