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Deadly mosquito-borne virus claims first life in major US city as cases spread
Yahoo • • health
Key Points:
- A Chicago resident has died from West Nile virus, marking the city's first death linked to the illness this year, with several other cases reported across Illinois.
- The Chicago Department of Public Health has responded by spraying insecticide in multiple community areas to curb mosquito populations amid the rainiest summer in years, which has increased breeding opportunities.
- West Nile virus is primarily spread through infected mosquito bites, with symptoms ranging from mild flu-like signs to severe neurological conditions such as meningitis and encephalitis, especially in people over 50 or those with weakened immune systems.
- There is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus; prevention focuses on avoiding mosquito bites using repellents with at least 30% DEET, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water around homes.
- Nationwide, there have been 407 reported human cases of West Nile virus in 2026, including 285 severe neuroinvasive cases and 23 deaths, with most cases occurring in August and September.
