CHICAGO - The risk of West Nile virus (WNV) infection is on the rise in Illinois, with 13 counties reporting positive mosquito samples and birds: Champaign, Cook, Douglas, Fulton, Kane, Hancock, LaSalle, Morgan, Washington, Whiteside, Williamson, Winnebago and Woodford. While no human cases have been reported for the year 2024 in any of the articles provided,
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) confirmed 11 positive mosquito pools and 10 positive birds across these counties. The IDPH reminds everyone that most people infected with WNV do not develop symptoms, but serious illness such as encephalitis and meningitis is possible.
Last year, there were 119 human cases and six deaths reported in Illinois due to WNV. In contrast, only 34 human cases and seven deaths were reported in the previous year.
The virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito that has fed on an infected bird. To reduce exposure, IDPH advises staying indoors when mosquitoes are most active, eliminating sources of standing water where mosquitoes can breed, and wearing long clothing or insect repellent with DEET when outdoors.
The CDC recommends that people ages 60 and older and those with weakened immune systems take extra precautions to avoid WNV infection. Anyone who sees a sick or dead crow, blue jay, robin, or other perching bird is encouraged to contact their local health department for testing.
The first mosquito batches were found in mid-May this year, about two weeks earlier than usual due to the milder winter and spring. The IDPH urges everyone to 'Fight the Bite' by practicing the three Rs: reduce exposure, repel mosquitoes with insect repellent, and report any standing water around their community where mosquitoes can breed.
