Sept. 8, 2006
News media calls to David Hass at (630) 682-7979, ext. 7374.

DuPage County Health Department reports Woman’s death caused by West Nile virus

The death of an 83-year-old Glen Ellyn woman due to West Nile virus has been reported by the DuPage County Health Department. The Illinois Department of Public Health has reported a total of four deaths in 2006 from West Nile virus. The other deaths were in Cook, Will and Bond counties.

IDPH is reporting nearly 100 human cases of West Nile virus so far this year. DuPage County has 17 human cases in 2006. There were 47 human cases of West Nile in DuPage County in 2005, but no deaths.

Other information on the death will not be released due to patient confidentiality restrictions.

The health department reminds residents to continue their protection and prevention efforts.

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has become infected with the virus by feeding on an infected bird; human illness occurs when an infected mosquito bites a person. Most people infected with WNV have no symptoms of illness and never become ill. But some may become ill 3-15 days following a bite.

Symptoms can include fever, headache and body aches. People over the age of 50 and those with chronic diseases such as heart disease or cancer may be more at-risk for meningitis or encephalitis, two life-threatening diseases. But, people of any age can contract West Nile illness.

The health department urges everyone to make sure they are properly protected:

• Apply mosquito repellent containing 20-35 percent DEET primarily to clothing. Concentrations of 10% or less are indicated for children. Use sparingly on exposed skin. This year, in addition to DEET, the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is recommending products containing picaridin and lemon of eucalyptus. Both have proven to be effective mosquito repellents. Always follow the directions on the container.
• Limit time outdoors when mosquito activity is heaviest (dusk through dawn)
• Keep skin covered if outdoors between dusk and dawn. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants and socks.
• Be sure screens in homes are intact and tight fitting to prevent entry of insects.
• Keep gutters around home cleared of debris and in good repair. ·
• Eliminate any containers that may hold water from around the outside of the home. Water that is allowed to stagnate for three or four days becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

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