The Illinois Department of Public Health has confirmed the first human West Nile virus-related death in Illinois for 2021. A Will County resident who first became ill in late August and tested positive for West Nile virus has died.
State Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike noted while we are already into fall, the West Nile virus remains a risk until the first hard frost. She reports it is important for everyone to continue to take precautions such as using insect repellent, wear long-sleeve shirts and pants, and staying indoors between dusk and dawn.
Currently, 40 human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Illinois. Last year, IDPH reported 42 human cases including four deaths. In 2020, 26 counties in Illinois reported a West Nile virus-positive mosquito batch, bird, horse, or human case.
Marion County is once again testing mosquito batches for West Nile, but has found no infected mosquitoes. No animal or human cases have been reported either. There was no positive case in Marion County last year.
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