15-05-2025
How do I avoid ticks and mosquitoes this summer?
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — The mild winter season was great for drivers, but residents can expect an influx of insects this summer as a result.
The Winnebago County Health Department recently mosquitoes containing West Nile Virus, but it came earlier than expected.
'We've seen West Nile in our area for over 25 years,' Environmental Health Supervisor Ryan Kerch said. 'This is a bit earlier than we normally see it, so we're just sending out the reminder to everybody that mosquitoes can carry this disease.'
Kerch is encouraging homeowners to limit areas of water around the house.
'The mosquitoes that can transmit West Nile virus like to lay their eggs in areas of stagnant water around the home; anything that can hold rainwater,' Kerch said. 'So, getting rid of those things will do a lot to get rid of bad mosquitoes.'
Tick season is also underway, and experts from the Boone County Conservation District are extending warnings to those looking to hit the trails this summer.
'Wear long sleeves, long pants, and tuck your pants into your socks,' Executive Director Josh Sage said. 'Any type of bug repellent also helps.'
Ticks like to hide in the hairline, behind the ears, behind the kneecaps, and on the backs of the arms, according to Sage. He encouraged hikers to check themselves and their backpacks for ticks.
'As long as you are diligent about doing tick checks after you come in from being outside, you'll be fine,' Sage said. 'One other thing you can do when you're out hiking is walk down the middle of the trail and try and avoid the tall grass or the trees overhead.'
Both Sage and Kerch said they aren't trying to stray people away from going outside.
'We're not telling people not to enjoy the outdoors again,' Kerch said. 'Just take those precautions, use those protective measures to try and avoid it, too, in the first place.'
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