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**Summary:**

A person in their 60s residing in suburban Cook County has died from a West Nile virus-related illness, marking the first such death in Illinois this year. Cook County officials report a high risk of West Nile virus in the area, with 33 cases already confirmed, and a high proportion of them impacting the central nervous system.

**News Article:**

**Cook County Reports First West Nile Virus Death of the Year**

**CHICAGO (WLS) –** Health officials in Cook County confirmed the first West Nile virus-related death in Illinois this year on Wednesday. The victim was a suburban Cook County resident in their 60s, according to the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH). No further details about the individual have been released.

“We are saddened to report the first death related to West Nile virus in Cook County this year,” said a CCDPH spokesperson. “This underscores the importance of taking precautions to protect yourself from mosquito bites.”

The CCDPH reports that the risk of West Nile virus remains high in suburban Cook County. So far this year, 33 cases of the virus have been confirmed within the county’s suburban areas. A concerning 22 of these cases have been classified as neuroinvasive, indicating that the virus has affected the central nervous system.

West Nile virus is typically transmitted to humans through the bite of mosquitoes that have become infected by feeding on infected birds.

Health officials are urging residents to take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites, including:

* Using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or other EPA-registered ingredients.
* Wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk.
* Eliminating standing water around homes, such as in flower pots, tires, and bird baths, where mosquitoes can breed.
* Ensuring screens on windows and doors are in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering.

Residents experiencing symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue should seek medical attention. In rare cases, West Nile virus can lead to serious complications, including encephalitis and meningitis.

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