West Nile Virus

The Oak Park Department of Public Health works with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Des Plaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District to keep tabs on the virus through regular testing of mosquitoes in the area. Dead crows, robins and blue jays, the birds most likely affected by West Nile Virus, also are tested when found.

Dead birds should be reported by calling 708.358.5694. Only birds that have been dead less than 48 hours and appear to have died from a natural cause should be reported. Dead birds will be collected until one tests positive for the virus.

The Des Plaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District treats all street catch basins with larvicide every seven to 10 days during the mosquito breeding season. The abatement district also will treat catch basins on private property on request, provide information on acquiring mosquito-larvae-eating gambusia fish for ornamental ponds and pick up old vehicle tires. Call 708.447.1765 for more information.

Spraying for adult mosquitoes typically is a tool of last resort. The Des Plaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District determines if spraying for adult mosquitoes is needed. However, if spraying becomes necessary and you wish to be notified before the spraying takes place,call the West Nile Virus Hotline at 708.358.5694 and when prompted leave your first name, last name and telephone number. Be sure to spell your last name. Or register online to be notified by the Village if spraying is scheduled.

The chance of being infected with the West Nile Virus actually is very small. Less than 1 percent of mosquitoes are infected, and less than 1 percent of the people who are bitten by an infected mosquito will become severely ill. Persons 50 years old or older, and those with compromised immune systems, are most susceptible.

The key is to reduce the chances of being bitten, by following these tips:

• Eliminate places that might collect water where mosquitoes can lay eggs, such as weeds, tall grass and discarded tires. Even depressions in the ground or a discarded bottle cap can be a potential mosquito-breeding site.
• Regularly empty and clean containers such as birdbaths, wading pools and ceramic garden pots.
• Keep gutters clean. Clogged roof gutters can easily hold enough water to be a major mosquito larvae reservoir.
• Avoid the outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Or wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors at these times.
• Use mosquito repellents, being sure to follow manufacturer’s directions. Repellents containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m toluamide) and Picaridin (KBR 3023) are considered the most effective.

Information about West Nile Virus in the Oak Park area is disseminated to the community through a variety of media, including the Village’s cable television station VOP-TV and OP/FYI newsletter. Health Department staff also will participate in public forums and distribute a variety of education materials such as brochures and posters. Anyone interested in a presentation or the materials should call the West Nile Virus Hotline, 708.358.5694 or email health@oak-park.us. Information also is available from the Des Plaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District and the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Residents can sign up to be notified when spraying will occur at www.oak-park.us/notifyme.