Lake County briefs

Lakes to offer free EKG tests

Lakes Community High School in Lake Villa will be offering free EKG heart tests to its students on Feb. 18. The cardiac screening is provided by the Max Schewitz Foundation and its Young Hearts for Life program. Trained volunteer parents will conduct the tests, but the results will be read by Dr. Eli Lavie of North Shore Cardiologists of Bannockburn. The hope is to identify students at risk for sudden heart attacks from otherwise hidden conditions. To date, more than 500 students from other schools have been identified as needing further evaluation after taking the test. Permission slips can be obtained at the school. The signup deadline is Feb. 12.

Talent show at school

The Libertyville High School faculty and staff will present the first "Faculty Follies" talent show on Feb. 21. The event benefits the Gardens for the Gambia charity effort. The show will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the school auditorium, 708 W. Park Ave., Libertyville. Tickets are $6 for students and $8 for adults. Tickets may be purchased in advance during lunch hours beginning Thursday, Feb. 12, or at the door the night of the performance.

Norovirus prevention

The Lake County Health Department is encouraging residents to take steps to prevent norovirus, a group of viruses that cause gastrointestinal illness or "stomach flu." Seven outbreaks have been reported since fall, including one in a school, at a private party, four in long-term care facilities and one in an assisted-living facility, the department reported. It is highly contagious and spreads easily. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, body aches, headache, tiredness and low-grade fever. Symptoms last 24 to 60 hours and subside on their own. Tips to avoid the virus include: frequently wash hands; carefully wash fruits and vegetables; clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces; and, remove and wash contaminated clothing or linen. Visit www.idph.state.il.us//public/HB;hbnorovirus.htm or call (847) 377-8130.