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First West Nile Virus Related Death Reported in Cook CountyIDPH Urges Vigilance Protecting against Infection |
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CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is reporting the first death of a person with West Nile virus in northern Illinois for 2013. A middle-aged man from suburban Cook County became ill with West Nile virus in late August and has died. It is the second West Nile virus related death in Illinois for 2013. IDPH reported the death of a Logan County resident last week. “The first West Nile virus related deaths this year occurred later than we typically see,” said Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck. “Even with the cooler temperatures, until the first hard freeze, you still need to protect yourself against mosquito bites and possible West Nile virus infection.” To date, West Nile virus positive birds, mosquitoes and/or human cases have been reported in 59 counties. The first human case this year was reported on August 21st, in a McHenry County woman in her 50s. Last year the first death was reported in August. For the 2012 season, IDPH reported the second highest number of West Nile virus human cases in state history with 290 residents and 12 deaths. So far this year, 10 human cases have been reported. West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. Common West Nile virus symptoms include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches. Symptoms may last from a few days to a few weeks. However, four out of five people infected with West Nile virus will not show any symptoms. In rare cases, severe illness including meningitis or encephalitis, or even death, can occur. People older than 50 are at higher risk for severe illness from West Nile virus. The best way to prevent West Nile disease or any other mosquito-borne illness is to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home and to take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Precautions include practicing the three “R’s” – reduce, repel and report.
Additional information about West Nile virus can be found on the Illinois Department of Public Health’s website at www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/wnv.htm. Surveillance numbers are updated every Wednesday afternoon http://www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/wnvsurveillance13.htm. |
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Illinois Department of Public Health 535 West Jefferson Street Springfield, Illinois 62761 Phone 217-782-4977 Fax 217-782-3987 TTY 800-547-0466 Questions or Comments |