SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed Illinois’ first human case of West Nile virus for 2025.
A person from Southern Illinois was hospitalized due to
complications of the infection.
About one in 150 people who contract the disease caused by a bite from an infected mosquito develop a severe illness that can affect the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and paralysis.
This is the earliest onset of illness observed in Illinois since 2016.
Those who are over 65 or immunocompromised are most at risk for complications.
So far in 2025, West Nile virus has been confirmed in 19 counties. The first positive mosquito batch of this year was found May 9 in Rockford. In 2024, there were 69 confirmed human cases including 13 deaths, the highest number since 17 West Nile virus-related human deaths recorded in 2018.
“The fact that we are seeing the first human case of West Nile virus so early in the season serves as a timely reminder – especially for seniors and those with weakened immune systems – to protect yourself from illnesses caused by mosquito bites,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “I encourage all Illinoisans to ‘Fight the Bite’ and take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
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