West Nile Virus identified among mosquitoes in Chicago for the first time in 2024

The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) has identified the first cases of West Nile Virus (WNV)-infected mosquitoes this year.

According to the Mayor's office, The Illinois Department of Public Health announced the first cases of WNV-infected mosquitoes in Illinois on May 17, but there have been no reported human cases so far in 2024. West Nile Virus is the most prevalent mosquito-borne virus in Chicago and the United States,  posing potentially deadly health risks which make prevention imperative.

According to the CDC, West Nile Virus is commonly spread through infected mosquito bites, with symptoms including fever, headache, body aches, rash, and vomiting. Severe cases of West Nile Virus can result in serious complications including encephalitis and meningitis.

West Nile Virus does not cause serious illness in most people, but vulnerable populations including senior citizens and the imunocompromised may be at higher risk, according to the CDC.

The CDPH is doing its part to manage the spread of WNV-infected mosquitoes through an extensive mosquito control program. The organization treats 80,000 catch basins in Chicago with larvicide to eliminate mosquito larvae, while also testing mosquitoes for WNV, and applying spray to eradicate adult mosquitoes when necessary.

"Mosquitoes are a common annoyance in Chicago during the summer months, and can occasionally transmit serious diseases," said CDPH Commissioner Olusimbo 'Simbo' Ige in a statement. Ige stressed that the most effective way to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses is to avoid mosquito bites and take steps to prevent their breeding near residences.

For additional information about mosquito-borne diseases, including symptoms and prevention, visit the CDPH official site.