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borne virus claims first life in major US city as cases spread
AOL.com • • health
Key Points:
- A Chicago resident has died from West Nile virus, marking the city's first death from the mosquito-borne illness this year, with several other cases reported across Illinois.
- The Chicago Department of Public Health has sprayed insecticide in multiple community areas to curb mosquito breeding amid the rainiest summer in years, which has increased mosquito populations.
- West Nile virus typically causes mild or no symptoms, but severe neuroinvasive cases can lead to meningitis, encephalitis, paralysis, or death, especially in people over 50 or those with weakened immune systems.
- Health experts recommend preventing mosquito bites by using DEET-based repellents, wearing protective clothing, avoiding outdoor activities at dawn and dusk, and eliminating standing water around homes.
- As of September 1, there have been 407 reported human cases of West Nile virus in the U.S., including 285 severe cases and 23 deaths, with most cases occurring in August and September.
