According to the North Shore Mosquito Abatement District (NSMAD), the current risk of West Nile virus infection is at the highest level so far this season. People are urged to take personal protection measures, most importantly by using an EPA registered repellent. Mosquito repellent is the simplest and most effective method of protection from mosquitoes and West Nile virus. Additionally, wearing proper attire and eliminating or draining items that can hold stagnant water around their property will help to further reduce risk.
The Village of Niles is covered by two different agencies related to mosquitoes: The Northwest Mosquito Abatement District for everyone west of Harlem, and the North Shore Mosquito Abatement District for everyone east of Harlem. Please contact these agencies to report biting mosquitoes and areas with standing water so they can take it into account as they perform their abatement operations. West of Harlem Avenue, notify the Northwest Mosquito Abatement District by visiting the “Help Center” page on their website www.nwmadil.com, or call (847) 537-2306. If you live East of Harlem Avenue, contact the North Shore Mosquito Abatement District by visiting www.nsmad.com and clicking on “Fight the Bite,” or call (847) 446-9434.
During the final few weeks of summer, as always, continue to follow best practices to protect yourself from mosquitoes. Use insect repellent, wear loose-fitting clothing, avoid being outdoors during peak feeding times near dawn and dusk, and eliminate standing water on your property. A good reminder: If it can hold water, it can breed mosquitoes.