Tazewell County announces its first human death from West Nile virus

TAZEWELL COUNTY (25News Now) – The Tazewell County Health Department has announced the first death caused by West Nile Virus this year.

The department said the man was in his 70s and lived in the county. The first symptoms appeared in mid-October and he died shortly afterwards.

The department also said there is one non-fatal case in the county so far.

Nine deaths related to West Nile virus have been reported in the Illinois area.

The health department said 8 out of 10 infected people do not experience any symptoms. Symptoms may include a mild fever or headache in mild cases.

More serious cases can result in a rapidly developing high fever with headaches, body aches, disorientation, tremors, convulsions and, in some severe cases, paralysis or death.

Symptoms usually appear 3 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

People ages 60 and older are at highest risk for severe illness from West Nile virus.

The public is encouraged to use the 3Rs to protect themselves from mosquitoes.

1. Reduce mosquito numbers by reporting and eliminating standing water (water that sits in the same spot for more than 7-10 days). These areas are breeding grounds for mosquitoes and West Nile virus. This may include keeping outdoor trash cans closed to prevent them from filling with rainwater. dispose of old tires, tin cans, buckets, barrels, bottles or other water-containing containers; and plastic paddling pools should be emptied at least once a week and stored indoors when not in use. For more examples of standing water, visit www.tazewellhealth.org/234/Mosquito-Awareness
2. Repel mosquitoes with the right insect repellent. Use a repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil. If possible, avoid spending time outdoors from dusk to dawn. This is when mosquitoes are most active. If you go outside during this time, wear loose-fitting, light-colored, long-sleeved tops and long pants made of tightly woven materials to keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
3. Report cases of standing water that has been standing for more than 7-10 days. To report standing water in Tazewell County, visit www.tazewellhealth.org/235/Standing-Water-Report

You can watch 25News – every newscast, everywhere – LIVE on 25NewsNow.com, our 25News mobile app and our WEEK 25News SmartTV streaming app. Learn more about how to connect to 25News’ live news streaming Here.

Copyright 2024 WEEK. All rights reserved.