The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has reported the first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) for the year 2024, striking a resident in suburban Cook County. While the preliminary diagnosis is based on commercial testing and the clinical presentation of the disease, confirmation is awaited from the CDC. According to the IDPH, the patient, who is in their 60s, began experiencing symptoms in mid-June.
Tracking the spread of this mosquito-borne illness, the IDPH has flagged 33 counties with positive indicators for the virus, as reported on its West Nile virus dashboard. Dr. Sameer Vohra, the IDPH Director, emphasized the seasonal upsurge in mosquito activity and the consequent risk of vector-borne diseases. In a statement obtained by IDPH, Dr. Vohra urged residents to take preventive measures against bites that "can cause potentially serious illnesses."
Last year, Illinois saw 119 reported human cases, a sharp increase from 34 in 2022, including six fatalities due to the virus. A look back, the first human case in 2023 emerged in late June as well. To mitigate the risk, the state health department is actively funding local health departments, allocating about $2.8 million towards mosquito control and surveillance initiatives. These strategies encompass mosquito and bird testing, public education, and responding to potential breeding sites or reports of mosquito infestations.
Transmitted through the Culex mosquito species after they feed on infected birds, WNV can manifest symptoms such as fever, nausea, and muscle aches, lasting up to a few weeks. While most infected individuals will not exhibit any symptoms, the state health authorities remind that severe manifestations can include brain infections or paralysis, with those over 50 and the immunocompromised at heightened risk. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for WNV currently, hence reducing exposure is critical, urged IDPH.
The public is advised to adopt the "Fight the Bite and take steps to prevent WNV by practicing the three “R’s” – reduce, repel, and report". This encompasses ensuring homes are mosquito-proof, using EPA-registered repellents when outdoors, and alerting authorities about standing water prone to mosquito breeding. Complete details about prevention and surveillance can be found at the IDPH's West Nile virus resource page.
