Amy Avakian, Trustee | Village of Western Springs
Amy Avakian, Trustee | Village of Western Springs
The Desplaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District (DVMAD) has informed the Village that recent warm and dry conditions have led to an increase in mosquitoes responsible for spreading the West Nile Virus (WNV). Although WNV-positive mosquito samples have been found in the area, the risk of transmission remains low at this time. However, levels are expected to rise as summer continues.
Residents are advised to take precautions against mosquito exposure and potential diseases they may carry. It is recommended to check and repair window screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes. Sealing openings around window air conditioners and vents is also advised. Outdoor activities should be limited around dusk, but if unavoidable, wearing shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt is suggested. Loose-fitting, light-colored clothing is preferred, along with using insect repellents as per manufacturer’s instructions.
Crews have been treating stormwater catch basins on roads and off-road areas like parks since May to prevent adult mosquitoes from emerging. Residents are encouraged to eliminate mosquito breeding sources by disposing of water-holding trash such as cans and bottles; cleaning rain gutters; changing water in bird baths weekly; maintaining swimming pools; overturning containers that can collect water; screening rain barrels; aerating ornamental ponds with fish; and disposing of used tires without rims.
For more information, residents can visit the DVMAD website at www.dvmad.org.
This information is available in the DVMAD press release.
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