IDPH Says Two Deaths from West Nile Virus

The Illinois Department of Public Health has confirmed the first two human West Nile virus-related deaths in Illinois for 2015.

The Cook County Department of Public Health reported a resident in their 90s became ill at the end of August and has died. Separately, the Kendall County Health Department reported a resident in their 70s became ill at the end of July and has died.

IDPH reported the first human case of West Nile virus in Illinois this year on August 19. Last year, there were 44 human cases, including four deaths. Cases in humans are underreported.

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. Common 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 and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for severe illness from West Nile virus.

Additional information is available at www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/diseases-a-z-list/west-nile-virus.