SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health has reported the first confirmed human case of West Nile virus in Illinois for this year. A DuPage County resident in her 40’s became ill in mid-August. Last year, Illinois saw 28 human cases including one death. Monitoring for West Nile virus includes testing for mosquito batches and dead birds, as well as testing residents who may have West Nile virus-like symptoms. People who observe a sick or dying perching bird should contact their local health department, who will determine if the bird will need to be tested.
“While we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, we must also remember to take steps to protect our health from other illnesses,” said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. “In an effort to decrease our risk of contracting COVID-19 from indoor settings, many of us are spending more time outdoors while still socially distancing. As we enjoy the outdoors, we need to protect ourselves from other viruses carried by mosquitoes by wearing insect repellent and getting rid of standing water around our homes.”
