Illinois, Wisconsin report their first West Nile virus deaths of 2024

Two deaths from West Nile virus have been reported in Wisconsin and one in Illinois, the first such deaths in those states this year. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Thursday that it has received reports of 18 deaths from West Nile across the country this year, according to preliminary data. There were 182 such deaths in 2023. The deaths in Wisconsin, in addition to the hospitalization of another person with West Nile, were the first human cases there this year. The people were residents of Outagamie, Fond du Lac, and Brown counties. The Illinois case involved a person in their 80s who lived in Lake County. Nine other West Nile cases have also been reported in that state this year. Overall, the CDC has received reports of 289 West Nile cases in 33 states for 2024; 195 of those cases have been neuroinvasive. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile. Most cases are mild and may involve flu-like symptoms and a rash. About 1,000 Americans are hospitalized each year with the most severe form of the virus. Another 1,500, on average, are diagnosed after developing symptoms. The heaviest virus activity is usually seen in August and September. Experts say that reducing exposure to mosquitoes is the best way to avoid West Nile infection. The CDC advises using an insect repellent when going outdoors, wearing long pants and long sleeves, and keeping doors and windows shut as much as possible. Eliminate standing water sources where mosquitoes can breed.