AURORA RESIDENT DIAGNOSED WITH WEST NILE VIRUS

The DuPage County Health Department reported yesterday the first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in DuPage County for 2021. An Aurora resident in his 60s became ill in mid-August.  The Kane County Health Department reported earlier this week a Sugar Grove man in his 50s as its first human case of the year.

Health departments are encouraging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites and the risk of contracting WNV.

WNV is transmitted to people by infected mosquitoes. Approximately one in five people who are infected with WNV will develop symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Less than one percent will develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis (inflammation of the brain or surrounding tissues).

The best way to prevent WNV is to avoid mosquito bites and follow the four Ds of defense:

•    DRAIN: Drain those items that collect standing water around your home, yard, or business. Scrub and refill pet water dishes and bird baths regularly.

•    DEFEND: Use an insect repellent containing DEET when outdoors and reapply according to directions.

•    DRESS: Wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes when outside to cover the skin.

•    DUSK TO DAWN: Wear repellent outdoors during these prime times for mosquito activity.

WNV activity generally decreases in the fall when cooler temperatures arrive and especially after the first frost of the season. Additional information and resources on WNV prevention are available at www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html.