First West Nile Virus Death of 2025 Confirmed in Suburban Cook County
COOK COUNTY, IL – Illinois health officials have confirmed the state’s first death related to West Nile virus in 2025, a resident in their 60s from suburban Cook County.The Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) announced Wednesday that lab testing confirmed the virus was a contributing factor in the death.
Details regarding the resident’s specific community and how they contracted the virus have not been released. This fatality comes as suburban Cook county has already seen a significant increase in West Nile virus cases this year. As of this week, 33 human cases have been reported - nearly double the number recorded at this point last year. Of those,22 cases are considered neuroinvasive,meaning the virus affected the patient’s central nervous system.
“The year’s first death from West Nile virus in Illinois is a sobering reminder that mosquito-borne illnesses are still with us,” said Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra.”It’s vital to take appropriate precautions as the whether remains warm.”
Last year, suburban Cook County reported 19 cases and five deaths. Statewide, Illinois has recorded 69 cases and 13 fatalities related to West Nile virus in 2024. Chicago also reported its first human cases of the virus for 2025 in August.
Health officials emphasize that many West Nile virus infections are asymptomatic or cause only mild symptoms, meaning actual case numbers are likely underestimated. CCDPH’s Dr. Kiran Joshi stressed the importance of preventative measures, especially for seniors who are at higher risk of severe illness and death.
“as long as mosquitoes are flying around, people are at risk of mosquito bites and of contracting West Nile virus,” Joshi stated.
The health department is urging residents to “Fight the Bite” by reducing mosquito exposure,using insect repellent,and reporting standing water. They recommend EPA-registered repellents containing 20% to 50% DEET for adults and 20% to 25% DEET for children.Symptoms of West Nile virus, when they occur, typically appear within three to 15 days after infection and can range from mild to severe, potentially causing high fever, neurological damage, or death.
