Community Corner

West Nile Cases Growing in DuPage County

More cases of West Nile virus are expected to be confirmed as additional reports have been received, officials say.

Cases of West Nile virus are on the rise, with a total of seven cases verified among residents of DuPage County.

Since last week, two additional cases have been confirmed among county residents and officials expect the numbers to continue to grow.

The DuPage County Health Department said the cases include residents ranging in age from their 40s to 70s. The virus has infected residents in Downers Grove, Villa Park, Naperville, Carol Stream, Lisle and Lombard. Lombard Village President Bill Mueller, 76, became the first West Nile fatality in DuPage County. He had been battling cancer since 2008, and had been hospitalized since Aug. 5. 

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Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that the number of cases of West Nile virus nationwide was the highest number since the first incidences were reported in the United States in 1999. As of Aug. 21, there were 1,118 human cases diagnosed.

The highest number of cases reported is in Texas where 537 were reported, according to the CDC. Illinois had 21 cases as of last week.

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The number of people infected with the virus is expected to rise locally, according to the DuPage County Health Department. Additional reports have been received and confirmation is anticipated in the coming days.  Statewide, 2012 human case data, including cases by county, are provided on the Illinois Department of Public Health West Nile virus website

Mosquitoes, specifically the Culex pipiens, transmit the virus after biting infected birds. The mosquitoes spread the virus to humans and other animals through bites. There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus. Most people experience no symptoms. Those with mild cases may not know they have the virus; they may experience a fever and aches that go away on their own, according to the CDC. More severe cases may require hospital stays.

After being bitten, people typically have symptoms of the virus within three to 14 days, according to the CDC. The best way to avoid the risk is to avoid being bitten.

Here are tips from the CDC:

  • When you are outdoors, use insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient. Follow the directions on the package.
  • Many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Be sure to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at these times or consider staying indoors during these hours.
  • Make sure you have good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
  • Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flowerpots, buckets and barrels. Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in birdbaths weekly. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Keep children's wading pools empty and on their sides when they aren't being used.

Read additional stories on West Nile virus:

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