CLARENDON BLACKHAWK MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT
PRESS RELEASE-August 7, 2018

West Nile Virus (WNV) has amplified to a level where its presence is being detected in adult mosquitoes at levels capable of being transmitted to humans. The DuPage County Health Department operates a network of gravid traps throughout the county to collect adult mosquito samples for testing to detect the presence of WNV. These traps are highly selective in collecting mosquitoes having had a blood meal and potential exposure to WNV. Repeated positive samples have been detected from the trap located within the Village.

The Clarendon Blackhawk Mosquito Abatement District, the agency responsible for mosquito control activities within the Village, has maintained an aggressive effort to control mosquito development while in their larval stage of development. Larval control operations have been ongoing since early May, and will be continuing into October. In response to the recent positive samples collected within our area, the District will be utilizing contingency adult mosquito control measures (weather permitting) on Thursday August 9 between the hours of 9:00pm - 12:30am to reduce the potential viral transmission cycle.

The threat of WNV will be with us for the rest of the summer. Residents are encouraged to use a common sense approach in avoiding exposure to adult mosquitoes and any potential mosquito borne diseases. Window screens should be inspected and repaired if damaged to prevent mosquitoes from entering the home. If possible, avoid outdoor activities around dusk. If not possible, wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long sleeved shirt. Loose fitting, light colored clothing is best. Appropriate use of insect repellents per manufacturer's instructions is recommended.