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Major US city reports first West Nile virus death of the year in Illinois
Fox News • • 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 rainy summer in Chicago has increased mosquito breeding, prompting the Chicago Department of Public Health to spray insecticide in multiple community areas to prevent further infections.
- West Nile virus symptoms range from mild flu-like signs to severe neuroinvasive conditions like meningitis and encephalitis, with older adults and immunocompromised individuals at highest risk.
- There is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus; prevention focuses on avoiding mosquito bites through repellents containing DEET, protective clothing, and eliminating standing water around homes.
- As of September 1, the CDC reports 407 human cases of West Nile virus in the U.S. this year, including 285 severe cases and 23 deaths, with most infections occurring in August and September.
