West Nile Virus Found in Deerfield

Mosquito pools sampled in Deerfield on July 25 tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), reported the Lake County Health Department.

WNV was also found in mosquitoes in Lake Villa Township.

These instances mark the first confirmed indications of the disease’s presence in the county this year, according to a county press 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.

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.

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.

Recommendations to prevent mosquito breeding include:

• Discard old tires, buckets, drums or any water holding containers. Poke holes in tires used as bumpers on docks.
• Keep roof gutters and downspouts clear of debris.
• Keep trash containers covered.
• Empty plastic wading pools at least once a week and store indoors when not in use.
• Drain unused swimming pools.
• Fill in tree rot holes and hollow stumps that hold water.
• Change the water in bird baths and plant urns at least once a week.
• Store boats upside down or drain rainwater weekly.

 Recommendations to prevent mosquito bites include:

• Whenever possible, limit outdoor activity at dusk.
• Wear light-colored clothing that minimizes exposed skin and provides some protection from mosquito bites.
• Make sure door and window screens fit tightly and that all holes are repaired.
• Apply insect repellent that includes DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR 3535 according to label instructions. Consult a physician before using repellents on infants.