US EditionFirst West Nile Virus-Related Death in Illinois Reported in Suburban Cook County
Suburban Cook County has seen 33 West Nile virus cases this season, nearly double last year, with 22 involving central nervous system impacts, health officials reported.
- Cook County officials confirmed the first West Nile virus-related death in Illinois in 2025 involving a suburban resident in their 60s.
- This death followed a surveillance period from May 11 to September 6 during which 33 West Nile virus cases were recorded in suburban Cook County, nearly double last year's count.
- Health experts explained that people contract West Nile virus through infected mosquito bites and most infected individuals have no or mild symptoms, though severe cases can cause neurological damage or death.
- Dr. Sameer Vohra, leading the Illinois Department of Public Health, described the recent West Nile virus fatality as a stark warning that mosquito-borne diseases continue to pose risks and encouraged residents to follow the "Three R's" to minimize their chances of infection.
- Health authorities have warned that the threat of West Nile virus remains elevated in Cook County, urging residents to apply EPA-approved insect repellents, avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours at dawn and dusk, and fix any damaged window screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes.
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West Nile virus claims first life in Illinois this year
COOK COUNTY, Ill. (WTVO) — A person in their sixties has died from the West Nile virus in suburban Cook County, marking the first death from the virus in Illinois this year. Health officials report that since May, there have been 79 confirmed cases of West Nile virus in humans across Illinois, surpassing last year's total. The Illinois Department of Public Health is urging residents to remain vigilant against West Nile virus, particularly in are…
First Illinois West Nile virus death of 2025 confirmed in suburban Cook County
A suburban Cook County resident in their 60s has died after contracting West Nile virus, marking the first virus-related death reported this year in Illinois, health officials announced Wednesday.Lab testing has confirmed that the virus was a contributing factor in the resident’s death, the Cook County Department of Public Health said in a statement. The health department did not provide details about what community the resident lived in, their …
Illinois reports first West Nile virus death of the year, in Cook County resident
Illinois is reporting its first West Nile virus death of the year — a suburban Cook County resident in their 60s, health officials said Wednesday. Related Articles Gov. JB Pritzker warns he may take executive action to ban or regulate hemp products that get users high Farm Hop focuses on NWI’s innovative food programs Cook County confirms second suburban measles case of the year, in 4-year-old chil…
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