Four suburban Cook County cases of West Nile virus reported

The Cook County Department of Public Health Friday reported the first four cases of West Nile virus in suburban Cook County this season.

All four cases were identified in adults. CCDPH is encouraging residents to take precautions to prevent West Nile Virus.

West Nile virus occurs in humans when they are bitten by mosquitoes that contracted the virus by feeding on infected birds.

The Illinois Department of Public Health on Wednesday reported the state’s first human case of West Nile virus, involving a resident of Piatt County.

Last year, 44 total cases of West Nile virus, and four deaths, were reported in suburban Cook County.