Will County Gazette

Will County health officials have confirmed the first human case of West Nile Virus for 2025. The patient, a man in his 60s from Bolingbrook, tested positive after being hospitalized in mid-July. This marks the first reported human case in Will County this year. Earlier this summer, Cook County also reported its first human case, highlighting concerns about the virus spreading throughout the region.

The Will County Health Department stated that the individual is now recovering at home. The confirmation follows reports of West Nile-positive mosquito samples collected in nearby areas, including Frankfort, where local authorities identified virus activity as early as June.

Adina McCollough, recreation manager for the Park Forest Recreation, Parks & Community Health Department, urged residents to take precautions when outdoors—especially during dawn and dusk hours 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 emphasize that while the overall risk of serious illness remains low, older adults and those with weakened immune systems face higher vulnerability. West Nile Virus is mainly spread by infected mosquito bites. Symptoms can vary from mild fever and body aches to more severe neurological complications in rare instances.

Park Forest is working with local partners to monitor mosquito populations through testing and encourages residents to report dead birds—an early sign of possible West Nile activity. Additional information on prevention or how to report concerns is available at www.villageofparkforest.com or willcountyhealth.org.