Spraying stepped up in Lake County to combat West Nile virus; ‘All … residents should take precautions to protect themselves'
George Balis, the Midwest regional manager for Clarke Environmental Mosquito Management, said his company has significantly increased its spraying efforts in Waukegan, North Chicago, Gurnee, Zion, Beach Park and other communities.
'There has been a dramatic increase in the number of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus in the last three weeks,' Balis said.
Clarke started overnight adult mosquito abatement spraying on Aug 4 in Waukegan and other nearby communities in an effort to significantly reduce the number of insects capable of causing the West Nile virus in people.
Along with the citywide spraying, Waukegan Public Works Director Chris Garland said in an email that a special mosquito treatment was planned at the Waukegan Municipal Beach ahead of Friday's Touch a Truck event.
'Our main goal is to help keep the community safe and healthy, especially during peak mosquito season,' Garland said. 'With the recent stretch of hot weather and heavy rain, mosquito activity has increased — including species that can carry West Nile virus.'
Emily Young, the Lake County Health Department's marketing and communications manager, said in an email on Wednesday that 56 batches out of 337 tested were positive for West Nile virus. One person in the county has become ill with the disease. The county does not disclose where the patient lives.
So far this summer, three people have tested positive for the disease in Illinois, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health's website. The other two are in DuPage County and downstate Wayne County.
Though the number of people who can become seriously ill or die from West Nile virus is very small, Balis said it can happen. Of those who contract the virus, approximately 80% will feel very little, but around 20% will feel more severe symptoms like 'summer flu.'
Of those who fall in the 20% category, Balis said, 1% can contract a neuroinvasive form of the disease. It can require hospitalization. As airborne insects, mosquitoes can travel, which is why Young said everyone in the county should use precautions.
'Mosquito surveillance trap data lets us know West Nile virus is present in mosquitoes in the county,' Young said. 'As infected mosquitoes do not always stay in one area, all Lake County residents should take precautions to protect themselves.'
Young recommends using the 'Four Ds' to protect against being infected by mosquitoes which may carry the virus. The tasks are draining all standing water, defend yourself and your family by using EPA-approved insect repellent, limit outdoor time between dawn and dusk and dress wearing clothes and shoes that cover your skin.
When dealing with standing water — whether in a birdbath, a sewer drain or a puddle in the yard — Balis said it should be removed within three to five days. Female mosquitoes lay eggs in still water where they mature and hatch. If there is no water, they will not hatch and grow wings.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New York Post
2 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.
USA Today
2 days ago
- USA Today
11 reasons why you need more sweet potatoes in your diet
Various forms of sweet potatoes have long held a place at holiday tables, burger joints and in Southern kitchens, but their reputation as a sugary side dish often sells them short. After all, this colorful root vegetable is more than just comforting and delicious. It's packed with nutrients that support eyesight, digestion, immunity and even heart health. 'Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-rich choice that offer sweetness and satisfaction along with important vitamins, minerals and fiber,' says Lisa Young, a registered dietitian nutritionist, author of "Finally Full, Finally Slim" and an adjunct professor of nutrition at New York University. 'When eaten in reasonable portions and prepared simply, they can be a delicious and healthful part of almost any eating plan.' What are sweet potatoes? Sweet potatoes are starchy root vegetables that come in a variety of colors, with orange being the most common, followed by purple, white and yellow. While they share a name with white potatoes, they're not closely related. 'Sweet potatoes belong to the morning glory family, while white potatoes are part of the nightshade family,' explains Amy Goodson, a Texas-based registered dietitian and founder of The Sports Nutrition Playbook. 'Sweet potatoes also have a different nutrient profile." For instance, sweet potatoes tend to be higher in certain key nutrients and have a lower glycemic index, meaning they raise blood sugar more gradually than white potatoes. 'This makes them better at supporting blood sugar levels,' notes Young. From a culinary standpoint, sweet potatoes are as versatile as they are nutritious since they shine in both sweet and savory dishes. You can bake them whole, cube them for roasting, mash them with herbs, blend them into smoothies or slice them into fries. And though typically in season during the fall and winter, sweet potatoes also have the benefit of being available year-round in most grocery stores. Hmm: Smoothies are more popular than ever. But are they healthy? How many calories in a sweet potato? Sweet potatoes are not only nutritious but also lower in calories than many people realize. One small sweet potato (about 100 grams) has only about 80 calories, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That same serving provides over 4 grams of fiber, which is great for digestive health, blood sugar regulation and promoting a sense of fullness. 'Low calorie content plus high fiber makes sweet potatoes a good food for healthy weight management,' says Young. "Provided they're prepared in a health-conscious way, of course." Being high in fiber and a good source of complex carbohydrates, sweet potatoes can also 'provide lasting energy for daily activities or workouts,' adds Goodson. They're especially rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant your body converts into vitamin A. In fact, 'just one medium sweet potato provides over 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A,' says Young. This essential nutrient "supports eye health, immune function and healthy skin,' says Goodson. Sweet potatoes also offer a range of other nutrients, including manganese, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and vitamin C – minerals and vitamins that contribute to immunity, bone health, brain development and collagen production. They're particularly rich in potassium, with a single small sweet potato delivering nearly 500 milligrams of the mineral. 'Potassium is an important mineral for heart health and blood pressure regulation,' says Young. Are you getting enough potassium? And what foods can you get it from Can you eat sweet potatoes every day? Despite their benefits, sweet potatoes should be consumed in moderation. 'They're still a starchy vegetable that can raise blood sugar when eaten in large portions or prepared with added sugars, like in candied yams,' cautions Young. To get the most benefit without downsides, she recommends keeping preparations simple: "think roasted, baked or steamed – not fried or drenched in butter and brown sugar." Sweet potatoes are also naturally high in oxalates, which are compounds that may contribute to kidney stones in susceptible individuals. This is why people with a history of kidney stones or kidney disease should consult a healthcare provider before increasing their intake, says Goodson. Additionally, their fiber content, while beneficial in moderation, can cause bloating or constipation if consumed in excess. Another consideration is the high vitamin A content of sweet potatoes. While beta-carotene from plant sources is generally safe, very high intakes over time may interfere with certain medications such as retinoids or blood thinners. As long as such considerations are kept in mind, though, 'there really are not many downsides to eating a sweet potato," says Goodson. 'Their natural sweetness, paired with key vitamins and minerals, makes them a smart addition to most balanced diets."
Chicago Tribune
3 days ago
- Chicago Tribune
Spraying stepped up in Lake County to combat West Nile virus; ‘All … residents should take precautions to protect themselves'
A recent and significant increase in the number of mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus in areas of Lake County has prompted heightened spraying and other measures to keep the potential spread of the disease at a minimum. George Balis, the Midwest regional manager for Clarke Environmental Mosquito Management, said his company has significantly increased its spraying efforts in Waukegan, North Chicago, Gurnee, Zion, Beach Park and other communities. 'There has been a dramatic increase in the number of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus in the last three weeks,' Balis said. Clarke started overnight adult mosquito abatement spraying on Aug 4 in Waukegan and other nearby communities in an effort to significantly reduce the number of insects capable of causing the West Nile virus in people. Along with the citywide spraying, Waukegan Public Works Director Chris Garland said in an email that a special mosquito treatment was planned at the Waukegan Municipal Beach ahead of Friday's Touch a Truck event. 'Our main goal is to help keep the community safe and healthy, especially during peak mosquito season,' Garland said. 'With the recent stretch of hot weather and heavy rain, mosquito activity has increased — including species that can carry West Nile virus.' Emily Young, the Lake County Health Department's marketing and communications manager, said in an email on Wednesday that 56 batches out of 337 tested were positive for West Nile virus. One person in the county has become ill with the disease. The county does not disclose where the patient lives. So far this summer, three people have tested positive for the disease in Illinois, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health's website. The other two are in DuPage County and downstate Wayne County. Though the number of people who can become seriously ill or die from West Nile virus is very small, Balis said it can happen. Of those who contract the virus, approximately 80% will feel very little, but around 20% will feel more severe symptoms like 'summer flu.' Of those who fall in the 20% category, Balis said, 1% can contract a neuroinvasive form of the disease. It can require hospitalization. As airborne insects, mosquitoes can travel, which is why Young said everyone in the county should use precautions. 'Mosquito surveillance trap data lets us know West Nile virus is present in mosquitoes in the county,' Young said. 'As infected mosquitoes do not always stay in one area, all Lake County residents should take precautions to protect themselves.' Young recommends using the 'Four Ds' to protect against being infected by mosquitoes which may carry the virus. The tasks are draining all standing water, defend yourself and your family by using EPA-approved insect repellent, limit outdoor time between dawn and dusk and dress wearing clothes and shoes that cover your skin. When dealing with standing water — whether in a birdbath, a sewer drain or a puddle in the yard — Balis said it should be removed within three to five days. Female mosquitoes lay eggs in still water where they mature and hatch. If there is no water, they will not hatch and grow wings.
