QUAD CITIES (KWQC) - The West Nile virus has been reported in every state including Illinois and Iowa, a health official said.

As mosquito season continues, health leaders are urging Quad Cities residents to take precautions against West Nile virus.

“Illinois alone has confirmed 79 cases so far this year, already exceeding last year’s total by 10,” said Cory Law, with the Whiteside County Health Department.

On Wednesday the state health department said one person died in Cook County.

Law says the illness is spread mainly through the bite of an infected mosquito that fed on an infected bird.

Law adds most people experience only mild flu-like symptoms, but older adults, people with chronic conditions, and those with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness. Severe ca

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