West Nile Cases in Illinois Surpass Last Year’s Total as State Reports First Death

ILLINOIS — Health officials confirm that West Nile virus cases in Illinois have already surpassed last year’s total, with 79 cases reported statewide so far in 2025. The Illinois Department of Public Health also confirmed the state’s first death, a Cook County resident in their 60s, marking a serious reminder of the risks during peak mosquito season.

Rising Cases Across Illinois

According to Cory Law of the Whiteside County Health Department, Illinois’ 79 confirmed cases are 10 more than last year’s total, and numbers may continue to rise as mosquito activity remains strong in late summer. The virus, present across the Quad Cities, Illinois, and Iowa, spreads primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito that has fed on a bird carrying the virus.

While many people experience mild flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, and fatigue, severe cases can escalate to neurological complications including tremors, convulsions, or coma. Older adults, people with chronic health conditions, and those with weakened immune systems face the greatest risk of life-threatening illness.

Prevention and Safety Measures

Health officials urge residents to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites:

• Use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET or similar ingredients.
• Wear long-sleeved clothing and pants when outdoors.
• Avoid being outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquito activity peaks.
• Eliminate standing water in yards, gutters, flowerpots, and buckets, where mosquitoes breed.

Cory Law noted that risk will begin to decline once overnight temperatures drop to around 50 degrees, when mosquito activity lessens significantly. Until then, Illinoisans should remain vigilant.

Regional Impact

The virus is not limited to Illinois. On August 14, the Iowa Department of Health confirmed its first West Nile case of the year, underscoring the regional nature of the outbreak. With cases spreading across multiple states, health officials encourage the public to remain cautious and report symptoms promptly.

With cases climbing faster than in previous years and the first death now confirmed, Illinois residents are urged to practice consistent mosquito prevention habits until cooler temperatures arrive. Stay with ChicagoMusicGuide.com for continuing coverage on health and safety updates across the state.