Bridgeview, IL – Cook County health officials have confirmed Illinois’ first West Nile virus-related death of the year after a suburban resident in their 60s died, according to the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH).
Laboratory results confirmed West Nile virus contributed to the death, marking the first fatal case reported in both suburban Cook County and across the state this season.
According to CCDPH, the risk of West Nile virus in suburban Cook County remains high. Since the start of the surveillance period on May 11 through September 6, 33 human cases have been reported—nearly double last year’s total. Of those, 22 were classified as neuroinvasive, meaning the central nervous system was affected. In 2024, suburban Cook County recorded 19 cases and five deaths.
Statewide, Illinois saw 69 human cases of West Nile virus and 13 fatalities last year, with Cook County—home to Chicago—accounting for 50 of those cases.
“The year’s first death from West Nile virus in Illinois is a sobering reminder that mosquito-borne illnesses are still with us,” said Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. He urged residents to “Fight the Bite” by reducing exposure, using insect repellents, and reporting stagnant water.
CCDPH Chief Operating Officer Dr. Kiran Joshi added that seniors remain at highest risk for severe illness and urged residents to take extra precautions while mosquitoes remain active.
Health officials stress that while most infections are mild or symptom-free, severe cases can cause fever, stiff neck, neurological complications, or death.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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