West Nile virus discovered in Highland Park

A batch of mosquitoes sampled on June 13 in Highland Park has tested positive for West Nile virus, the Lake County Health Department announced Monday.

This is the first confirmed indicator of the virus in the county this year. Last year, eight human cases of the virus, including one fatality, were reported in Lake County.

Officials urge people to drain standing water near their homes or businesses, use insect repellent when outdoors, be especially cautious at dawn and dusk, and cover skin with long sleeves, pants and closed-toed shoes when outdoors.