Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has reported the first human case of West Nile virus in Illinois for 2024. The case involves an individual in their 60s residing in suburban Cook County, with symptoms appearing in mid-June. While commercial testing indicates a positive result for the mosquito-borne illness, IDPH has sent the case to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for confirmatory testing.

IDPH is actively monitoring positive cases among birds and mosquitoes through its West Nile virus dashboard. So far this year, 33 counties in Illinois have shown positive results, signaling early warnings of the virus's presence.

"Summer in Illinois means mosquitos, and these mosquitos increase our risk of contracting vector-borne illnesses like West Nile Virus," said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. He advised residents to "Fight the Bite" by protecting themselves from insect bites that could lead to serious illnesses.

In 2023, Illinois recorded 119 human cases of West Nile virus, compared to 34 cases in 2022. There were six deaths attributed to the virus last year, down from seven in 2022. The first human case last year was reported in late June.

To support mosquito control efforts statewide, IDPH provides $2.8 million in funding to local health departments for activities such as larvicide application and public education on prevention methods. These departments also collect mosquitoes and sick or dead birds for testing.

West Nile virus spreads through mosquito bites after they feed on infected birds. Symptoms include fever, nausea, headache, and muscle aches lasting several days to weeks. Most people show no symptoms; however, severe illness can occur rarely, leading to brain infections or paralysis.

There is no specific treatment or vaccine for West Nile virus currently available. Therefore, preventive measures are crucial.

IDPH urges residents to practice three key steps: reduce exposure by ensuring screens are intact and eliminating standing water; repel mosquitoes using appropriate clothing and repellents; report stagnant water sources that could breed mosquitoes.

Surveillance efforts include reporting individuals with symptoms and conducting environmental tests on mosquitoes and birds. Residents observing sick or dying birds should contact local health authorities for potential testing.

Further information on West Nile virus data is accessible through IDPH's resources.