West Nile Virus Update - Human Cases Confirmed August 2010
The Illinois Dept. of Public Health confirmed the first human West Nile Virus case in Illinois for 2010 in August in Carol Stream. As of September 15, seven more cases have been reported - three of them located nearby in Lombard, Oak Brook and Elmhurst, all in August. So while we are seeing cooler temperatures as we head into fall, the threat of West Nile Virus is still present. It remains important to take precautions such as wearing insect repellent and getting rid of standing water around your house, to reduce the risk of becoming infected with West Nile Virus.
West Nile Virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. Only about two people in 10 who are bitten by an infected mosquito will experience any illness. Most people with the virus have no clinical symptoms of illness. Those who become ill usually have mild symptoms, including fever, headache and body aches. Serious illness, such as encephalitis and meningitis, and death are possible.
The Health Dept. is collecting freshly-dead perching birds for WNV testing, provided the birds do not show signs of decay or trauma. For more information, contact the DuPage County Health Dept. at 630-682-7400.