Park Forest officials are urging residents to exercise caution following the confirmation of the first human case of West Nile virus in Illinois this month. The Illinois Department of Public Health announced this case last Tuesday, marking the earliest human infection recorded since 2016.
Recreation Manager Adina McCollough said that prevention begins at home.
“We encourage Park Foresters to eliminate standing water around their properties,” McCollough said. “Birdbaths, buckets, plant saucers, and gutters should be emptied or refreshed weekly to disrupt mosquito breeding.”
Health experts warn that while most West Nile infections cause mild, flu-like symptoms, about one in 150 cases can lead to serious illness affecting the brain or spinal cord. The virus poses the highest risk to individuals over 65 or those with weakened immune systems.
McCollough also reminded residents to take personal protective measures.
“When outdoors, especially from dawn to dusk, wear long sleeves and long pants, and apply an EPA-registered insect repellent according to the label directions,” McCollough said. “It’s also essential to have close-fitting screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of homes.”
According to state reports, this year’s West Nile case was confirmed more than three weeks earlier than the first human case in 2024, indicating a potential for increased early-season transmission. Additionally, West Nile-positive mosquitoes have already been detected in Cook County, highlighting the local risk.
McCollough said residents are encouraged to promptly report any dead birds to the state health department, as birds can carry the virus and serve as an early warning for local transmission. Those who experience severe symptoms—such as high fever, headache, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, or confusion—are urged to seek medical attention immediately.
With the warmest months still ahead, McCollough offered a final reminder:
“Mosquitoes thrive in these conditions, so constant vigilance is essential. Together, we can 'Fight the Bite' and keep Park Forest safe this summer.”