West Nile Virus Found in Morton Grove

The North Shore Mosquito Abatement District has found the first West Nile virus positive mosquito pool to occur in Morton Grove this year.

A pool of mosquitoes collected in Morton Grove on July 1, 2013, initially tested negative via RAMP® in our lab on July 2, 2013. The sample was sent to the Illinois Natural History Survey for additional testing via RT-PCR that indicated the sample was positive for West Nile virus.

The NSMAD reminds residents to protect themselves by avoiding outdoor activity around dawn and dusk, covering exposed skin with loose fitting, light colored clothing and wearing repellent. Residents should also check around their homes and eliminate potential mosquito breeding sources particularly any items that can hold water. If it can hold water, it can breed mosquitoes. 

Information from North Shore Mosquito Abatement District