Man dies of West Nile virus in DuPage County



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DUPAGE COUNTY, IL – A 65-year-old man who contracted West Nile virus in early September died, according to a press release from the DuPage County Health Department. Of the 14 West Nile virus cases reported in DuPage County in 2018, this is the first human death.

In a statement, DuPage County Health Department Executive Director Karen Ayala said, "The report on a death is a sad reminder that it's always important to protect yourself, protect your family against the West Nile virus. "

Department of Health officials say the risk of getting West Nile virus in DuPage County is still at Level 3, which is considered a high risk. Many people who contract West Nile virus have no symptoms. Others may experience headache, fever, body pain, diarrhea, joint pain and rash. A small percentage of the victims develop meningitis or encephalitis.

To protect yourself from West Nile Virus, experts recommend removing stagnant water, wearing long-sleeved clothes and pants when you're outdoors, and wearing an insect repellent with DEET from dusk to dusk. 'dawn.

Image via Shutterstock

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