CHICAGO — Mosquitoes with West Nile virus have been discovered on the South Aspect, and the town’s well being division is giving neighbors tips about the way to keep secure from the bloodsucking bugs.
The mosquitoes — the primary native ones confirmed to have West Nile in 2024 — have been present in Larger Grand Crossing, Roseland and West Pullman, based on a Division of Public Well being information launch. No circumstances have been confirmed in people.
To forestall the unfold of this virus, Chicagoans can use insect repellent; do away with standing water the place mosquitoes breed; maintain grass and weeds brief; guarantee all screens, home windows and doorways are tight-fitting and freed from holes; and put on loose-fitting, light-colored clothes when outdoors at evening, based on the well being division.
“Mosquitoes are a typical nuisance round Chicago throughout the summer time months and may generally carry severe diseases,” well being Commissioner Dr. Olusimbo “Simbo” Ige mentioned. “One of the best ways to guard your self from mosquito-borne ailments is to keep away from mosquito bites and take measures to cease them from breeding round your property.”
West Nile virus is unfold to people by way of the chew of an contaminated mosquito. It’s common to not really feel sick after being contaminated, however one in 5 folks develop flu-like signs, based on the well being division.
There isn’t any treatment to deal with West Nile virus in folks, so it should be prevented as a lot as doable, based on the well being division. Extreme sickness could happen in about one in 150 folks and is more than likely in folks over the age of 60.
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