
Naperville News Digest: Naperville Men's Amateur Championship winners announced; DuPage County reports first human case of West Nile virus
Held July 19 and 20 at the Springbrook and Naperbrook golf courses, the competition ultimately came down to the final few holes, director of golf Kevin Carlson said in a news release.
Aman Shah, a Naperville resident, had the lowest gross score in the championship flight and was named the champion after winning a playoff on the second hole. Shah also won the event in 2023.
Matt Arhontas, of Villa Park, the B-Flight winner, sunk a hole-in-one Sunday on hole 13 at Springbrook. The feat earned him a $750 gift certificate for golf merchandise, the release said.
Other flight winners included Harland White, of Bolingbrook; Arturo Garza, of Naperville; William Fuggar, of Des Plaines; and Danny Chang, of Naperville.
Registration is underway for the next golf tournament, the Springbrook Women's Invitational, which will take place Monday, Aug. 11. For information, go to www.golfnaperville.org.
The first human case of West Nile virus in DuPage County has been reported in Glen Ellyn, according to the DuPage County Health Department.
A person in their 50s experienced virus symptoms in mid-July, a news release said.
The virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people who are infected do not develop symptoms but about 20% will report symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash, the release said.
Less than 1% develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis, the health department said.
Residents are encouraged to protect themselves from mosquitoes, noting a rise in mosquito batches testing positive for West Nile virus in recent weeks.
Naperville Park Board member Chris Jacks is running for a seat on the DuPage County Board, according to the DuPage County Republican Organization.
Jacks is seeking a four-year term representing District 5, which includes parts of Naperville, Aurora, Lisle, Woodridge and Warrenville. District 5 has two open seats — one 2-year-term and one 4-year-term — in the 2026 election.
In addition to the park board, he is also a member of Naperville's Historic Preservation Commission. A Naperville resident, Jacks is married with two children and holds a master's degree in business administration from Indiana University. He has worked in the information technology industry for 29 years and currently is a program manager, according to his park board biography.
Jacks was elected to the park board in 2023; his term expires in 2027.
The Naperville Police Department will hold a safety webinar for college-bound students and their parents at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 31.
Hosted by the department's crime prevention specialists, the program will combine drug and alcohol education with personal safety information, a news release said.
Presenters will talk about the temptations and challenges often encountered by new college students to help them understand the potential legal, personal and academic consequences of their decisions, the release said.
An emphasis will be placed on utilizing situational awareness and practicing responsible behavior to keep themselves and their property safe.
The webinar is free and can be viewed at www.naperville.il.us/backtoschool. No registration is needed. It will be posted to the city's website after the event ends.
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Chicago Tribune
9 hours ago
- Chicago Tribune
Officials say risk of West Nile virus ‘high' in Chicago after city sees first 3 cases of the year
Chicago is now at a high risk level of West Nile virus after reporting its first three confirmed human cases of the virus this year, according to local health officials. This week, the Chicago Department of Public Health announced that three city residents from the Northwest and South sides between the ages 40 and 80 tested positive for the virus and that their symptoms began in late July or early August. The state saw its first human case of the year on June 24, which was the earliest case of West Nile in Illinois since 2016. 'We are seeing a higher proportion of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus than usual this year,' CDPH Commissioner Olusimbo Ige said in a news release. In 2024, the Illinois Department of Public Health reported a total of 69 cases, leading to 13 deaths of West Nile virus, with nearly half of the cases coming out of Cook County. To date, in addition to those reported by CDPH this week, the state agency has reported five other human cases this year in DuPage, DeKalb, Lake, Madison and Wayne counties. West Nile virus is primarily spread to people through mosquito bites and is not transmitted by human-to-human contact, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most people infected with West Nile do not feel sick, the CDC says, though about 1 in 5 people develop a fever and other flu-like symptoms and 1 in about 150 people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness. Most human cases of West Nile occur in late summer and fall, when mosquitoes are most active. With no vaccines or medicines to prevent or treat the virus, the most effective method to prevent West Nile infection is to avoid mosquito bites, according to CDPH. To track the risk level of West Nile in Chicago, CDPH from June through October collects mosquitoes from traps placed across the city and tests them for West Nile. Last week, CDPH tested 121 pools of collected mosquitoes and detected West Nile in 59, or 48.8%, of those pools, according to city surveillance data. The week before, the department tested 130 pools of mosquitoes and 81, or 62.3%, tested positive for the virus. That means Chicago has reached a 'high risk' level of West Nile and, because mosquitoes are testing positive earlier, could see that heightened risk last longer this year. That also means the CDPH has sprayed more insecticide to reduce mosquito numbers than it has in recent years, Martin said. Over the past few weeks, CDPH has been spraying insecticides to kill mosquitoes in various areas across the city, including O'Hare International Airport, Logan Square and Avondale, with the department spraying seven more communities — Forest Glen, Norwood Park, Mount Greenwood, Beverly, East Garfield Park, Near West Side and North Lawndale — this week. To curb infection, CDPH is encouraging Chicagoans to: use Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellant; eliminate standing water; keep grass and weeds short to eliminate hiding places for mosquitoes; and make sure all screens, windows and doors are shut tight. CDPH also has advised the people who are immunocompromised to consider avoiding outside activity during peak mosquito hours from dusk to dawn. The public is encouraged to track CDPH West Nile surveillance data.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
World's deadliest animal is probably outside your Florida home right now. Protection tips
What's the world's most dangerous animal? Hint: It's plentiful in Florida and no, it's not an alligator, shark or python. According to the Centers for Disease Control the deadliest animal in the world is the mosquito. "The mosquito kills more people than any other creature in the world," the CDC said, noting the flying nuisance spreads such diseases as malaria, dengue, West Nile, yellow fever, Zika and chikungunya. The Florida Department of Health said there are 80 types of mosquitoes in the state, many of which transmit diseases. The agency tracks mosquito-borne illnesses — known as arboviruses — acquired locally and those contracted by people with a history of travel. Here's what you should know, including how you can protect yourself and your family. Mosquito-borne illnesses confirmed in Florida so far this year The latest report from the Florida Department of Health has confirmed the following cases of mosquito-borne illnesses in the state between Jan. 1 through Aug. 2: West Nile Virus: 5 asymptomatic blood donors Escambia: 5 Chikungunya: 4 cases in those with travel history Broward: 2 Lake: 1 Miami-Dade: 1 Dengue: 122 cases in those with travel history; 7 cases in non-Florida residents Bay: 1 Brevard: 2 Broward: 10 Clay: 1 Collier: 2 Duval: 3 Escambia: 1 Hillsborough: 6 Lake: 3 Lee: 4 Manatee: 1 Marion: 1 Miami-Dade: 63 Okeechobee: 3 Orange: 6 Osceola: 2 Palm Beach; 5 Pasco: 1 Pinellas: 3 Polk: 1 St. Johns: 1 St. Lucie: 1 Volusia: 1 Denque acquired in Florida: 8 cases Brevard: 6 Miami-Dade: 2 Malaria: 28 cases in those with travel history; 9 in non-Florida residents Alachua: 1 Brevard: 1 Broward: 3 Collier: 1 Duval: 1 Hillsborough: 1 Lake: 1 Marion: 2 Miami-Dade: 4 Nassau: 2 Orange: 3 Palm Beach: 3 Polk: 2 St. Lucie: 2 Volusia: 1 What mosquito-borne diseases are tracked in Florida? The Florida Department of Health tracks travel- and locally acquired cases of the followed mosquito-borne diseases: West Nile fever and West Nile encephalitis Eastern equine encephalitis virus St. Louis encephalitis virus Dengue virus Chikungunya virus Zika virus California encephalitis group viruses Malaria Florida has more than 80 types of mosquitoes. Here are 5 'most wanted' The Florida Department of Health said there are more than 80 different species of mosquitoes in Florida, compared to about 3,500 species in the world. While not all of them cause disease, here are five the agency lists as "Florida's most wanted": Aedes aegypti, the yellow fever mosquito Larvae are found in water-holding objects found around the home and yard, such as flower vases, tires, toys, bottles, conch shells, cans, refrigerator drain pans, barrels, bromeliad plants, and other containers. Can be found in all of Florida except Panhandle counties. Diseases: Dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. Aedes albopictus, the Asian tiger mosquito Larvae found in water-holding objects found around the home and yard, such as flower vases, tires, toys, bottles, cans, barrels, tree holes, bromeliad plants, and other containers. Found in all Florida counties. Diseases: Dngue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. Culex quinquefasciatus, southern house mosquito Larvae are found in a variety of aquatic habitats, especially those with high organic content, including catch basins, ditches, containers, dairy lagoons, and others. Found in all Florida counties and are abundant throughout the state. Diseases: Dog heartworm, St. Louis encephalitis virus, West Nile virus. Aedes taeniorhynchus, Black salt marsh mosquito Larvae are found in salt marshes. Found in all Florida counties and are strong fliers that are major pests during summer and early fall. Disease: Dog heartworm. Psorophora ciliata, Gallinipper Larvae are found in ditches, containers, grassy pools, furrows of citrus groves, pasture areas. Found in all Florida counties. Diseases: None none. What attracts mosquitoes? While there's not much we can do about some conditions mosquitoes are attracted to — this is Florida — we should note mosquitoes are drawn to: Damp or humid areas Standing water Warm temperatures Dark, shady areas Carbon dioxide (your breath) Myth or magic? Do mosquito-repelling plants really work? Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs. And they don't need much. Water in a bottle cap can provide an ideal breeding ground. Experts repeatedly encourage residents to empty flower pots, bird baths and any outdoor item that holds standing water — including bromeliads — to stop mosquitoes from breeding. Some residents share ideas to make outdoor living more bearable by selecting mosquito-repelling plants for their landscape, especially citronella and lavendar. But do they really work? 'Certain plants do contain mosquito-repelling compounds,' says Liah Continentino, environmental horticulture agent with University of Florida/IFAS Extension Monroe County. 'But unless you're extracting their oils and applying them like a spray, they're not doing much just sitting in your garden. 'Plants like eucalyptus, citronella, mint, basil, lavender and marigolds have oils that can deter mosquitoes. But the key word is 'oils.' These compounds need to be extracted and used in concentrated forms — like sprays — to be truly effective." In other words, mosquito-repelling plants are more myth than magic — at least when it comes to passive protection, UF said in a news release. So what can Florida residents do to minimize mosquitoes? Don't give up when it comes to enjoy Florida outdoor living. There are some things you can do and some do involve plants. Here are a few ideas: Reduce mosquito habitats 'This includes regularly emptying plant saucers, bird baths, pet water bowls and bromeliads, as well as any other water-holding plants. Refreshing bird baths and pet bowls with clean water several times a week and flushing bromeliad cups with a hose can help prevent larvae from developing,' said Jennifer Pelham, UF/IFAS urban horticulture agent and director of UF/IFAS Extension Martin County. Use plants in your landscape to attract mosquito predators "For dragonflies, which are highly effective mosquito hunters, they are drawn to native aquatic plants. For birds, include shrubs and trees that supply food, shelter and nesting areas,' said Lorna Bravo, urban horticulture agent with UF/IFAS Extension Broward County. Use fish to control larvae For water features that are permanent, such as ornamental ponds, UF/IFAS recommends adding mosquito-eating fish like Gambusia to naturally control larvae. Cover rain barrels with screens and refresh pet water bowls daily to prevent mosquito access. Encourage mosquito predators in your yard, including fish, dragonflies, fronts, birds and bats. What are the best mosquito repellents to use? According to the CDC, repellents with the following active ingredients "typically provide reasonably long-lasting protection": DEET Picaridin Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or PMD "Products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus specifies that they should not to be used on children under the age of 3." IR3535 2-undecanone "Certain products containing permethrin are recommended for use on clothing, shoes, bed nets, and camping gear, and are registered with EPA for this use." Items that don't work to repel mosquitoes "There are many gimmicks for sale that do not work, so be an educated consumer and don't waste your money on impulse buys," the Florida Department of Health said. Some items that are not effective for reducing mosquitoes include: Mosquito plants Bug zappers Consumption of garlic, vitamin B, and bananas Repellent bracelets and wristbands Ultrasonic devices and cell phone apps Dragonfly mimics This article originally appeared on Florida Today: World's deadliest animal are mosquitos. 80 types in Florida Solve the daily Crossword


New York Post
5 days ago
- New York Post
Health officials confirm human case of West Nile virus transmitted by mosquitoes in New Orleans
Louisiana health officials have confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus in Orleans Parish this year, serving as a reminder of the threats posed by mosquitoes. The Louisiana Department of Health said the resident has the neuroinvasive form of the disease, which is the most severe form of infection. Advertisement The virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, and while most people experience no symptoms, health officials warn that some may develop symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pain or vomiting. Nationwide, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows the agency has been made aware of at least 140 reported human cases, with many likely not reported to the agency. Mosquito activity typically peaks during the summer and early fall in areas that have seen an abundance of precipitation. Southern Louisiana has recorded slightly above-average precipitation this year, with accumulation totals of around 40 inches in 2025, which can contribute to increased breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Advertisement 4 The Louisiana Department of Health said a resident has the neuroinvasive form of the West Nile virus, which is the most severe form of infection. Mauro Rodrigues – 4 2025 West Nile virus cases map of the United States. CDC Eva Buckner, an assistant professor at the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Medical Entomology Laboratory, previously told FOX Weather that insect activity tends to significantly decrease when temperatures reach around 50 degrees. 'In general, when temperatures drop to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, that is when you are going to notice the mosquito activity decreasing,' Eva said. 'When you have freezing temperatures, that is when you are going to see more mosquito mortality.' Advertisement Temperatures at or near 32 degrees are cold enough to mark the end of the mosquito season but not the complete demise of the population. 4 The virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Kanurisme – In addition to the West Nile virus, the Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito is known to transmit the St. Louis encephalitis virus, Western equine encephalitis virus and lymphatic filariasis. 4 Repellents with DEET or eucalyptus can also reduce the risk of bites. Photoboyko – Advertisement New Orleans' Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board does conduct mosquito spraying but did not state if the recent case of West Nile will impact mosquito control efforts. The agency did provide tips for residents and visitors, such as mosquito-proofing homes by maintaining screens on windows and doors. Using repellents with DEET or eucalyptus can also reduce the risk of bites and, therefore, infections. Health experts also suggest avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity hours, especially around dawn and dusk. Removing items that can collect water and ensuring cracks and crevices are properly sealed can limit potential breeding environments.