West Nile Appears Earlier This Year

Samples in Cook, DuPage counties test positive

The Chicago area has it's first confirmed case of West Nile Virus of the year, and it's a little bit earlier than normal.

Samples were taken from a crow and mosquitoes by officials from the Illinois Department of Public Health the the DuPage County Health Department. Samples from Lemont and norridge in Cook Coiunty and Clarendon Hills, Lisle, Westmont and Woodridge in DuPage County tested positive.

This case comes earlier than last year, and slightly earlier than normal. Last year's first positive West Nile result came June 8.

"Although it is a little earlier in the season than we normally find West Nile virus positive mosquito  pools and birds, it is not unheard of,” said Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck.

There are no confirmed cases of the virus in humans so far this year.

Nineteen counties in Illinois reported a West Nile virus positive mosquito batch, bird, and/or human case last year. Those reports accompany a total of 34 people contracting the virus last year, with three deaths.

Officials said the early showing of the virus is good reason to be vigilant. Insect repellent should contain DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR 3535. Tight-fitting screens on doors and windows can also help prevent bites. 

Officials add that people should reduce the amount of time they spend outdoors, especially between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, and report areas of stagnant water in roadside ditches, flooded yards, and other locations. 

Centers for Disease Control: West Nile Virus

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