2 West Nile Virus Deaths Reported In DuPage County

DUPAGE COUNTY — Two DuPage County residents have died after contracting West Nile Virus (WNV), according to the county health department. A West Chicago resident in their 60s and an Addison resident in their 70s mark the county's first two West Nile Virus-related deaths for 2023.

Both residents began to experience symptoms near the end of August, according to an update from DuPage County Health Department (DCHD). In total, the county has seen six cases of WNV in 2023 since August.

“We are saddened to report the first two deaths from West Nile virus in DuPage County for 2023,” DCHD Executive Director Adam Forker said in a statement. “Please make sure to protect yourself and loved ones from mosquito bites and reduce your exposure.”

In August, the Illinois Department of Public Health reported that a Cook County resident in their 90s had also died of the virus.

DCHD is encouraging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites. Some preventive measures they suggest include:

• Eliminating standing water
• Report public places where you spot standing water
• Sealing window screens tightly to prevent mosquito entry
• Using insect repellant that has DEET in it, IR 3535 or oil of lemon and eucalyptus
• Wearing socks, shoes, long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors

Symptoms of West Nile Virus can include a fever, headache, joint pains, a rash and vomiting.