Health

First Illinois West Nile Virus Death of 2026 Reported in Chicago

The first death from West Nile virus in Illinois this year was reported in Chicago, the Chicago Department of Public Health announced Tuesday.

CDPH did not immediately share further details about the person who died. 

“The year’s first death in Illinois related to West Nile virus is a sobering reminder to take mosquito-borne illness seriously,” Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said in a statement. “While most people won’t experience serious symptoms, West Nile virus can lead to severe illness in high-risk groups such as older adults, individuals with chronic medical conditions, and immunocompromised persons.”

In addition, CDPH confirmed Tuesday the first two human cases of West Nile virus in the city.

Last week, the state’s public health department confirmed its first human case of West Nile virus this year, involving a resident of Piatt County. The Cook County Department of Public Health reported last week the first four cases of West Nile virus this season in suburban Cook County.

West Nile virus is typically spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito and is not generally spread from person to person. While most people infected with the virus do not feel sick, about one in five people develop a fever and flu-like symptoms, according to public health agencies. Severe illness is more likely in older adults and those who are immunocompromised.

Because there are no specific medications to treat West Nile virus in people, the most effective method to prevent infection is to prevent mosquito bites, according to CDPH.

Public health officials recommend:

• Wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent
• Making sure doors and screens are intact to keep mosquitoes out
• Emptying standing water from any indoor or outdoor containers, such as flowerpots, gutters, pet water dishes and birdbaths on a weekly basis
• Reporting stagnant water that can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes to your local health department

“2026 has seen the rainiest summer in Chicago in years, giving mosquitoes ample opportunities to breed,” CDPH Commissioner Dr. Garth Walker said in a statement. “The best way to protect yourself from West Nile virus is to avoid mosquito bites and take measures to stop them from breeding around your home.” 

Last year, there were 10 deaths related to West Nile virus in Illinois, according to the state’s public health department. In total, Illinois had 150 human cases of the virus last year.

Contact Eunice Alpasan: [email protected]

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