Chicago sizzles under intense heat and light winds

August 2, 2007 (WLS) -- Chicago is officially experiencing a heat wave, and Thursday, which was declared an Air Pollution Action Day, has been one of the hottest days of the year.

A Chicago man has been diagnosed with West Nile Virus. A scientist with the Chicago Department of Health is keeping tabs on the virus by testing groups of mosquitoes trapped around the city. So far, West Nile has been detected in eight neighborhoods. There is also one human case of the virus involving a 47-year-old man from the Southwest Side who has been hospitalized with encephalitis.

Experts say the first plan of action to stop the spread of West Nile is to destroy the breeding sites.

"If it gets to exceptionally high numbers of mosquitoes that are infected, we go out and spray," said the Chicago Dept. of Public Health's John-Paul Mutebi.

Mutebi also said the warm stretch of weather is one factor that contributes to West Nile.

Thursday was also Air Pollution Action Day. The intense heat and low winds made conditions tough to be outdoors, especially for people with respiratory illnesses.

"Keep your activities limited, remain in your comfort zone. Don't push your activity to the point of exhaustion," was the advice offered by Michael Mark of the American Lung Association.

Nevertheless, some tourists in Chicago saw the sights, despite the blazing sun.

"We just ran under the monument for a little shade. [We've been] running from one site to the next to cool off," said July Pedley, who is visiting from New York.

"If you are put off by bad weather, you'll never go anywhere. So&it's a bit hot&who cares?" said Peter Eisman from Australia.

It is important to take some precautions when you go outside. The type of mosquito infected with West Nile is most active at dusk and dawn. So, Chicago residents and visitors are advised to wear insect repellant and light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. information line at 311.

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