The Will County Health Department has confirmed its first human case of West Nile Virus for 2025 as the mosquito-borne illness continues to emerge across the region.
Health officials reported on Monday that a man in his 60s from Bolingbrook tested positive for the virus after being hospitalized in mid-July. This is the first confirmed human case in Will County this year. Just weeks earlier, neighboring Cook County reported its first case of 2025, raising concerns about the regional spread of the virus.
According to Will County officials, the infected individual is now recovering at home. This case follows several positive West Nile mosquito samples collected in surrounding communities, including Frankfort, where the Will County Health Department confirmed West Nile activity as early as June.
Adina McCollough, recreation manager for the Park Forest Recreation, Parks & Community Health Department, stressed the need for residents to take additional precautions when outdoors, particularly during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
"Even though Park Forest hasn't reported a human case yet, the presence of West Nile-positive mosquitoes in nearby towns is a reminder that we all need to remain vigilant," McCollough said. "Simple steps like wearing insect repellent, eliminating standing water, and repairing window screens can make a significant difference."
Health officials stress that the risk of serious illness remains low, but seniors and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. West Nile Virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, and symptoms can range from mild fever and aches to severe neurological illnesses in rare cases.
To help monitor mosquito populations, Park Forest is collaborating with local partners to test mosquito pools and is encouraging residents to report dead birds, which can be early indicators of West Nile activity.
For more information on prevention tips or to report concerns, visit www.villageofparkforest.com or willcountyhealth.org.