After the first reported death from the West Nile virus this year in suburban Cook County, officials in Park Forest are addressing residents' questions about mosquito control in the Village and how they can protect themselves.
In Park Forest, responsibility for mosquito control varies depending on whether residents live in Cook County or Will County. In Cook County, the South Cook County Mosquito Abatement District (SCCMAD) handles mosquito treatment. In Will County, the Village of Park Forest Public Works Department manages mosquito abatement.
Public Works Director Roderick Ysaguirre stated that SCCMAD typically treats areas with standing water and may also work along creeks, ditches, and ponds; however, their coverage is limited to Cook County.
For neighborhoods in Will County within Park Forest, the Public Works Department uses a method called larviciding, which targets mosquito larvae before they hatch.
“We use Altosid Briquets, which dissolve in standing water and prevent mosquitoes from hatching,” Ysaguirre explained. “These briquets are placed in stormwater catch basins at the beginning of each mosquito season. We focus on treating mosquito species that can carry the West Nile virus.”
Ysaguirre said that the Village does not use fogging or spraying for mosquitoes, stating, “Fogging is very ineffective.”
Not all mosquitoes in the area transmit the West Nile virus. Ysaguirre noted that floodwater mosquitoes, which hatch in grassy areas after heavy rains, are aggressive biters but typically do not carry the virus.
“These are the mosquitoes residents notice most because they bite aggressively,” Ysaguirre said. “However, our treatment efforts are directed at the species known to spread the West Nile virus.”
Ysaguirre encouraged residents to take simple steps at home to reduce the risk of mosquito breeding.
“Residents can make a significant difference,” he said. “Be sure to empty any standing water from buckets, flowerpots, and bird baths. Clean your gutters to prevent water from accumulating, and ensure that window screens are in good condition. Even a small amount of standing water can provide enough breeding ground for mosquitoes.”
Ysaguirre also advised using insect repellent and being mindful of the time spent outdoors to help keep families safe.
“Wear repellent when you're outside, especially around dusk and dawn,” Ysaguirre recommended. “These are the peak times when mosquitoes are most active. If you take precautions, you can still enjoy the outdoors with reduced risk.”
Health officials continue to encourage residents to protect themselves with similar precautions and to report stagnant water in public areas.
For more information about mosquito control in Cook County, residents can visit the South Cook County Mosquito Abatement District’s website at sccmad.org.