Des Plaines bird died from West Nile virus

The Cook County Department of Public Health reported Wednesday that they have found two birds infected with the West Nile virus in the suburban Chicago area.

A dead crow from Des Plaines and a dead robin from Lemont were collected on July 27 and July 18, respectively, and both tested positive for the virus. No human cases have been reported so far.

According to the department, the recent weather conditions have led to an increase in the mosquito population, specifically in the Culex mosquitoes, which are the primary carriers of the virus.

“Hot and dry weather tends to assist mosquitoes in breeding,” said LaTrice Porter-Thomas, an environmental quality manager at the department. “And standing water after rainfall also attracts mosquitoes.”

The recent weather, which included severe rainfall followed by periods of dry heat, attracted female mosquitoes to pools of water where they lay their eggs.

“It only takes them seven days or less to develop from eggs to adults” said Mike Szyska, the director for the Northwest Mosquito Abatement District. “They can gather anywhere from flower pots to children’s toys and gutters.”

To avoid providing breeding grounds for mosquitoes, both Porter-Thomas and Szyska recommend overturning any objects that contain standing water and debris.

Here are some tips from the health department on how to protect yourself and your family:

Ÿ When outdoors between dusk and dawn, cover skin with lightly colored lose fitting clothing and use mosquito repellent with DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Ÿ Make sure doors and windows have tightly fitting screens and repair any tears.

Ÿ Keep weeds and grass cut short and keep gutters clean and free of debris.

To report birds that have just died for a West Nile check, call (708) 633-8025.