Evanston: First West Nile Virus Positive Mosquitos of 2026 Found in North Shore Traps
The North Shore Mosquito Abatement District confirmed the first West Nile virus positive mosquitoes of 2026 were found in an Evanston trap. Officials urge residents to take precautions as summer mosquito season begins.
Evanston named in first positive West Nile test of the season
The North Shore Mosquito Abatement District confirmed on Tuesday that the first mosquitoes to test positive for West Nile virus in 2026 were found in Evanston.
Officials announced that a batch of mosquitoes collected from a trap in Evanston on May 28 tested positive for the virus. That pool marks the first confirmed indicator of West Nile virus presence on the North Shore this year, according to the district.
"While the risk of being infected with West Nile virus is low at this time, the NSMAD recommends that residents take personal protection measures to minimize mosquito bites," officials said in a statement.
Who is at highest risk
West Nile virus spreads through the bite of infected mosquitoes, primarily the Culex pipiens species. These mosquitoes typically breed in stagnant water found in buckets, gutters, plant containers, and kiddie pools, according to the district.
Symptoms of infection can include:
- Fever
- Mild headache
- In severe cases: rapid onset of high fever, head and body aches, disorientation, tremors, and convulsions
According to the North Shore Mosquito Abatement District, paralysis or death may occur in the most severe cases. People 50 years of age or older are at the highest risk for serious illness.
Symptoms typically appear within three to 14 days after a bite from an infected mosquito, the district said.
What residents can do
The district recommended three steps for Evanston residents to reduce their risk:
- Use an EPA-registered insect repellent
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid being outside during peak mosquito feeding times around dawn and dusk
- Examine property and eliminate any items that can hold standing water, especially smaller containers that may be overlooked
The announcement comes as summer arrives on the North Shore and mosquito activity increases across the region.
Source: North Shore Mosquito Abatement District, via Evanston Patch