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Community Corner

Mosquitoes in Glencoe, Northfield and Winnetka to be Sprayed to Fight West Nile Virus

The North Shore Mosquito Abatement District will be conducting "Adulticiding" operations between 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. tonight.

The North Shore Mosquito Abatement District will be conducting mostquito control efforts again in Glencoe, Northfield and Winnetka.

The spraying procedure, also known as adulticiding, will occur between 8 p.m. Thursday and 2 a.m. Friday in an effort to decrease mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus. Parts of west Winnetka, south Glencoe and the majority of Northfield will be sprayed, according to NSMAD's map.

"We’re going to be driving up public right-of-ways and alleys while doing an ultra-low volume mist of a product that’s designed to instantly kill mosquitoes that come into contact with it," said NSMAD Spokesperson David Zazra.

Find out what's happening in Winnetka-Glencoewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Mosquitoes in Evanston, Kenilworth, Morton Grove, Niles, Skokie and Northbrook have tested positive for West Nile Virus this summer, according to Zazra.

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Find out what's happening in Winnetka-Glencoewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"We haven’t heard of any human illness yet, but the risk is there." Zazra told Patch, "It’s not a high risk of human infection at the moment, but risk will definitely increase."

In addition to fighting West Nile, NSMAD is aiming to decrease the floodwater mosquito population. This breed is the most common type of mosquito in Illinois and "emerges about two weeks after heavy rains and can be a major nuisance problem for several weeks," according to the Illinois Department of Health.

Meanwhile Zazra said NSMAD is working around the clock to address area residents health concerns.

"We know it is a horrible situation out there right now and we’re trying to get to everyone we can to make their summer more pleasant."

Cook County Department of Public Health Mosquito Bite Prevention Tips:

  • Get rid of standing water around your home in pet bowls, flower pots, old tires, baby pools and toys. Water that is allowed to stagnate for three or four days becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
  • Make sure your doors and windows have tightly fitting screens and repair any tears or other openings.
  • Keep weeds and grass cut short and keep gutters clean and free of debris.
  • When outdoors between dusk and dawn, cover skin with lightly colored lose fitting clothing and use mosquito repellent with DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow the directions on the label.
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