West Nile virus found in Wilmette, Kenilworth mosquitoes

Mosquitoes found in Kenilworth and Wilmette in July have tested positive for West Nile virus, the first positive mosquito sample found in the towns in 2024, according to the North Shore Mosquito Abatement District.

Mosquitoes found in Evanston, Lincolnwood, Morton Grove, Northbrook, Northfield and Skokie have also tested positive this year, the release says.

One batch of mosquitoes collected on July 3 in Wilmette and two batches of mosquitoes collected on July 5 in Kenilworth tested positive for the virus in laboratory tests a few days later.

So far this year, 20 of 492 mosquito traps, or 4.1%, collected by the NSMAD have tested positive for West Nile virus.

The virus is found each summer throughout the NSMAD and the rate of positivity typically increases in the later summer months.

According to the NSMAD, the risk of infection is currently low, but officials recommend taking precautions against mosquito bites, such as wearing loose fitting clothing, using insect repellent, and avoiding peak mosquito feeding times around dawn and dusk. People are also urged to check property and dispose of any items that can hold water, such as smaller items that may be easily overlooked.

For more information on mosquito-related issues, visit the NSMAD website.

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