First Human Case to Test Positive for West Nile Virus

July 26, 2024

Last week the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced the first human case of the West Nile virus for 2024. The individual, who is in their 60s and resides in suburban Cook County, first had symptoms in mid-June.

IDPH is tracking positive batches of birds and mosquitos on its West Nile virus dashboard and has reported 33 Illinois counties this year with positive results.

Encourage your patients to protect themselves from mosquitoes and the viruses those insects carry by wearing bug repellent. During the 2023 season, there were 119 human cases of West Nile virus and six deaths reported in Illinois. According to IDPH, human cases are underreported.

People older than 60 and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness from West Nile virus.

Common symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches. Most people infected with West Nile virus will not show any symptoms; however, in rare cases, severe illness including meningitis, encephalitis, or even death, can occur.

For more information, visit IDPH’s West Nile virus web page.

Questions? Please contact the ISMS Health Policy Research and Advocacy team by email.