Seventh West Nile case in DuPage

The number of confirmed human cases of West Nile virus in DuPage County has climbed to seven, county health department officials announced Monday.

Details about the latest case weren’t released, but DuPage health department officials said all the cases involve individuals in their 40s to 70s. They were reported in Carol Stream, Downers Grove, Lisle, Lombard, Naperville and Villa Park.

Officials said one of the seven cases resulted in a fatality. Lombard Village President William Mueller died Aug. 18 from complications of West Nile virus while battling the cancer multiple myeloma.

Health department officials say the presence of West Nile virus — spread through infected mosquitoes — is widespread in the area and may remain so until cooler temperatures arrive. County residents should concentrate on personal protection and be cautious but shouldn’t curtail their outdoor activities, officials said in a news release.