Wayne County Resident Battles West Nile Virus: What You Need to Know

A person in Wayne County has become the first in Illinois to be diagnosed with West Nile Virus (WNV) in 2025. This news comes as a reminder that mosquitoes are not just annoying—they can be dangerous. The virus is spread when infected mosquitoes bite humans, and while many people don't get sick, some can face serious health problems. The person who got sick was in the hospital but is now home recovering. That's good news, but it's important to remember that WNV can cause serious issues like meningitis or even death, especially for older adults or those with weak immune systems. So far this year, 19 counties in Illinois have seen signs of WNV, and last year, the state had 69 human cases, including 13 deaths. Experts are urging everyone to take steps to protect themselves. This includes avoiding mosquito bites, using bug spray, and reporting places where mosquitoes might be breeding. The state is also giving money to local health departments to help control mosquito populations. If you want to learn more about WNV, you can check out the Illinois Department of Public Health's website. The key takeaway? Don't ignore mosquito bites—they can be more than just an itch.