A Kankakee County resident has died from the West Nile virus, marking the first such death in Illinois this year, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).
The IDPH has reported 37 human cases of the virus so far in 2017. Last year, there were 155 reported cases, including six deaths.
West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquito bites. While four out of every five people infected will not display symptoms, rare cases can lead to meningitis, encephalitis or death. Those who are immunocompromised and those over the age of 50 are at particular risk of severe illness related to the West Nile virus.
Nirav Shah, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health
| http://www.dph.illinois.gov/
“Although we will soon start seeing cooler weather, West Nile virus is still a concern,” IDPH Director Nirav Shah said in a press release. “It’s important for everyone to continue taking precautions like using insect repellent, wearing long sleeve shirts and pants, and staying indoors between dusk and dawn.”
The IDPH advised residents to prevent mosquito breeding by getting rid of objects that could collect standing water, such as old tires and buckets, and frequently refreshing the water in bird baths, flower pots and wading pools.
Alerts Sign-up