CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - The Chicago Department of Public Health has reported its first case of the West Nile virus this year.
CPDH said the patient is a man in his mid-60s, lives on the Northwest Side, and was hospitalized.
Earlier this week, the Illinois Department of Public Health reported the state’s first West Nile human case and death of 2022. The person was in their late 70s and resided in suburban Cook County.
CPDH noted that last year there were 13 human cases and no deaths. The department also reminded residents the West Nile virus is spread through the bite of a Culex pipiens mosquito and cannot be transmitted from person to person.
“The best way to prevent West Nile virus infection is by protecting yourself from mosquito bites,” said CDPH Commissioner Allison Arwady, M.D. “You can protect yourself and your family by using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing and eliminating standing water.”
The Chicago Department of Public Health lists the following tips for how to prevent mosquito bites:
- Use insect repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
- Eliminate standing water. This includes emptying water from flowerpots, gutters, pool covers, pet water dishes and birdbaths regularly.
- Keep grass and weeds short to eliminate hiding places for adult mosquitoes.
- When outside between dusk and dawn, wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing including long pants, long sleeve shirts, socks and shoes.
- Check that all screens, windows and doors are tight-fitting and free of holes and tears.
- Check on neighbors regularly who may need additional assistance, including the elderly.
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