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West Nile Virus

All articles tagged with #west nile virus

Chicago’s Mosquito Ranking Gathers Attention, Summer Forecast Remains Unclear
local10 days ago

Chicago’s Mosquito Ranking Gathers Attention, Summer Forecast Remains Unclear

Orkin ranks Chicago No. 2 for mosquito activity over the past year, but experts warn the data may reflect the number of treatments more than actual mosquito levels. Climate change is extending the mosquito season and expanding invasive species, with West Nile risk currently low but potentially rising later in the season. Residents are advised to dump standing water, use EPA-approved repellents, and report stagnant water to 311.

health13 days ago

IDPH Warns of Mosquito, Tick, and Bat Health Risks as Summer Arrives

IDPH warns warmer weather increases risks from mosquitoes, ticks, and bats. First West Nile virus–positive mosquito batches have appeared in Cook County; 2025 saw 150 human West Nile cases statewide. Tickborne diseases (including Powassan) are possible, and two bats tested positive for rabies in 2026. Prevent bites by reducing standing water, using EPA-registered repellents, wearing protective clothing, performing full-body tick checks, and vaccinating pets; contact health authorities if exposed to a bat or bitten by an animal.

Five Summer Moves to Deter Mosquito Bites, According to Experts
wellbeinghealth23 days ago

Five Summer Moves to Deter Mosquito Bites, According to Experts

Experts say you can’t completely avoid mosquitos, but you can cut bites with five summer strategies: remove standing water around your home to curb breeding, use proven repellents (such as DEET, picaridin, or IR3535), wear protective clothing, keep doors and windows sealed with screens, and maintain landscaping to reduce mosquito habitats. The piece notes mosquitos can spread diseases like dengue and West Nile virus, and that climate change is expanding mosquito ranges and seasons in the U.S.

Tiny mosquito, big warning: US West Nile risk rises after near-death ordeal
health4 months ago

Tiny mosquito, big warning: US West Nile risk rises after near-death ordeal

A Glendale, Arizona man recalls a near-fatal West Nile virus ordeal from a 2007 mosquito bite as cases of the mosquito-borne disease rise in the US. While many infections are mild, about 1 in 5 cause flu-like symptoms and thousands experience severe illness or death each year; rising temperatures are expanding mosquito seasons, prompting preventive measures like repellents, protective clothing, and mosquito-control efforts.

Strasburg Township guide's death from West Nile virus impacts community
health6 months ago

Strasburg Township guide's death from West Nile virus impacts community

Timothy Wade Talley, a beloved Lancaster County tour guide and photographer, died from West Nile virus at age 70, leaving a lasting impact on his community through his outgoing personality and dedication to sharing Amish culture. His death highlights the ongoing risk of West Nile virus, which is rare but severe, especially for outdoor enthusiasts like him.

Health officials warn as deadly disease hits popular tourist spot
health6 months ago

Health officials warn as deadly disease hits popular tourist spot

Health officials in Malaga, Spain, have issued a warning after mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus were found near homes, prompting a four-week alert. The virus can be deadly in rare cases and symptoms may last months, with cases increasing across Europe and the US, likely due to climate change. Preventative measures include avoiding mosquito bites through protective clothing, screens, and repellents.

First West Nile Virus Death of 2025 Reported in Illinois Suburbs
health8 months ago

First West Nile Virus Death of 2025 Reported in Illinois Suburbs

The first West Nile virus-related death of 2025 has been reported in suburban Cook County, Illinois, highlighting the ongoing risk of mosquito-borne illnesses. With 33 cases reported since May 11, nearly double the number from last year, health officials urge residents to take precautions such as reducing mosquito breeding sites, using repellents, and reporting stagnant water, especially as the risk remains high during warm weather.

US Faces Surge in Potentially Severe Mosquito-Borne Virus
health8 months ago

US Faces Surge in Potentially Severe Mosquito-Borne Virus

West Nile virus cases in the US are about 40% higher than usual this summer, with roughly 770 human cases reported, including nearly 500 severe cases, raising concerns about an unusual outbreak. Most cases occur in August and September, and experts warn that the intensity of the outbreak and the percentage of infected mosquitoes are concerning, especially for vulnerable populations. Preventative measures include wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and eliminating standing water to reduce mosquito breeding.

Multiple West Nile Virus Cases Reported Across Pennsylvania in 2025
health8 months ago

Multiple West Nile Virus Cases Reported Across Pennsylvania in 2025

A new case of West Nile virus has been reported in Lancaster County, bringing the total to five cases this year. The virus, primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, poses a low risk of human-to-human spread but can cause serious neurological illness in severe cases, especially among older adults and those with certain health conditions. Prevention includes avoiding mosquito bites and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.