A batch of mosquitoes in northern Illinois is this year's first detection of West Nile virus in the state.
The Illinois Department of Public Health made the announcement Tuesday. The North Shore Mosquito Abatement District collected the positive mosquito batch last week in Glenview.
West Nile virus can spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people won't have any symptoms. But the virus can cause fever, nausea and headaches. It can cause severe illness and death in rare cases.
Last year, Illinois reported 77 human cases, including nine deaths.
Health officials recommend wearing mosquito repellent when outside between dusk and dawn. It's important to remove standing water around homes and to repair or replace broken screens on windows.
