Christopher Hoff Executive Director at Lake County Health Department | Lake County Health Department
Christopher Hoff Executive Director at Lake County Health Department | Lake County Health Department
The Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center has reported the first human case of neuroinvasive West Nile virus in Lake County for 2025. The affected individual, a resident in their 70s, fell ill in early July.
Chris Hoff, Executive Director of the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center, emphasized the importance of taking precautions against mosquitoes during summer months. "Our time spent outdoors typically increases during the summer months, which also increases our exposure to mosquitoes," Hoff said. "Remember to take steps to protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes to reduce your risk of getting West Nile virus."
In 2025, nine out of 214 mosquito batches have tested positive for West Nile virus. The virus generally peaks between July and September when mosquito populations are highest.
To minimize risk, residents are advised to follow the "4 Ds of Defense": Drain standing water around homes; Defend by using EPA-approved insect repellents; be cautious from Dawn to Dusk; and Dress in long sleeves and pants.
While most infected individuals show no symptoms, some may experience fever, nausea, headache, or muscle aches within three to 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. In rare cases, severe neurological symptoms can occur.
Older adults and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for severe illness. More information on prevention is available at www.FightTheBiteNow.com or through the Health Department’s West Nile hotline at (847) 377-8300.
Information from this article can be found here.
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