The DuPage County Health Department announced on Friday that there are now 10 human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in DuPage County. Those affected by WNV are in their 20s to 70s, and are located in Carol Stream, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Lisle, Lombard, Naperville and Villa Park. One of those 10 cases resulted in a fatality related to WNV infection.
The Health Department reminds residents that the presence of WNV is widespread in the DuPage County environment so the risk of WNV is elevated and may remain so until the arrival of cooler temperatures. Therefore, residents should concentrate on personal protection and are urged to be cautious, but not curtail their outdoor activities.
The number of cases is expected to increase, since additional reports have been received and confirmation is anticipated in the coming days.
There have been 59 human cases of West Nile virus in Illinois this year, according to the state Department of Public Health. Of these, 43 have been in Cook County, 10 in DuPage. There have so far been two fatalities statewide from West Nile.
WNV is transmitted to people by infected mosquitoes, and can be prevented by:
• Using insect repellents when you go outdoors.
• Wearing long sleeves and pants from dusk to dawn.
• Installing or repairing screens on windows and doors. Using air conditioning, if you have it.
• Emptying standing water from items outside your home such as flowerpots, buckets and kiddie pools.
