As warmer weather brings more time outdoors, the Kane County Health Department is reminding residents to protect themselves against mosquitoes and ticks, which can carry diseases such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease.
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Mosquito and tick activity increases during the spring and summer months, making prevention an important part of staying healthy while enjoying outdoor activities, the department said in a news release.
West Nile virus remains the most common mosquito-borne disease in Illinois and is primarily spread through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito, according to the release. Most people infected do not develop symptoms, but some may experience fever, headaches, body aches or, in rare cases, serious neurological illness, the department said.
The Kane County Health Department conducts its annual West Nile virus surveillance program each mosquito season, placing mosquito traps throughout the county to monitor for virus activity, officials said. Mosquitoes collected from these traps are tested for West Nile virus, allowing the department to identify areas of increased risk and inform the public when positive samples are detected.
The health department will continue monitoring mosquito activity throughout the season and provide updates if West Nile virus is detected locally, according to officials.
As far as ticks, the department invites the community to pick up a tick removal kit from its Aurora office at 1240 N. Highland Ave., from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
For information about mosquito and tick prevention, go to https://www.kanehealth.com/Pages/Vector-Borne-Disease.aspx
Free music performances planned in St. Charles
A series of free musical performances called STC Live!, to be held at First Street Plaza in downtown St. Charles and at various St. Charles businesses, will begin June 3, organizers said.
The series will feature over 35 performances from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays through Sept. 28, according to a press release about the shows.
The season kicks-off on Friday, June 3, with two live shows. Matt Keen will perform at The Office Dining & Spirits, 201 E. Main St., and Leslie Hunt will perform at First Street Plaza, the release said.
St. Charles Business Alliance Executive Director Jenna Sawicki, in the release, said she is looking forward to another summer of live music in St. Charles.
“St. Charles has such a vibrant live music scene, and we’re thrilled to offer the community free performances on the First Street Plaza and at many of our wonderful local businesses,” said Sawicki in the release.
For more information on STC Live!, go to stcalliance.org/stclive or call the St. Charles Business Alliance at 630-443-3967.