Western Springs | wikipedia.org
Western Springs | wikipedia.org
Areas in the Desplaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District are seeing higher levels of West Nile Virus (WNV) among adult mosquitoes, raising the risk of transmission to humans. The mosquito species responsible for spreading WNV is not aggressive and often goes unnoticed. Recent warm weather has created favorable conditions for this mosquito's growth and a rapid increase in the virus.
Spraying for adult mosquitoes may take place during evening hours, from dusk to midnight, as needed in affected areas. The District provides updates about spraying locations on its website (www.dvmad.org), its Facebook page, and through notifications to local villages.
Residents are advised to take precautions to avoid mosquito exposure and potential diseases they carry. These include checking and repairing window screens, sealing openings around air conditioners or vents, avoiding outdoor activity at dusk when possible, wearing protective clothing such as shoes, socks, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts—preferably loose-fitting and light-colored—and using insect repellent according to manufacturer instructions.
To reduce breeding sources around homes, residents should:
- Dispose of trash that can collect water.
- Clean rain gutters and downspouts.
- Change water in bird baths and wading pools weekly.
- Maintain swimming pools properly.
- Remove or turn over items like buckets or wheelbarrows that can gather water.
- Screen rain barrels.
- Aerate ornamental ponds and add surface-feeding fish like goldfish.
- Get rid of used tires without rims.
For more information on mosquito control measures or updates about spraying activities, visit the District’s website at www.dvmad.org.
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