West Nile on rise; claims Ill. town leader

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CHICAGO, Aug. 19 (UPI) -- The West Nile virus is blamed for the death of a suburban Chicago official as the number of cases of the mosquito-borne virus continue to rise, official said.

Lombard Village President Bill Mueller died Saturday at the age of 76 from complications caused by the virus, a statement on the village's Web site said. He had previously been diagnosed with blood cancer, which compromised his immune system, the Chicago Tribune reported.

Mueller had been village president since 1993 and a community leader since the 1950s.

Mueller's death comes at a time when West Nile is becoming an increasing concern among health officials across the United States. CNN said Sunday 693 cases and at least 26 deaths had been recorded in 32 states.

The mosquito-borne virus causes fever, nausea, muscle aches and other symptoms. It is a particular threat to people over 50 who have other medical issues.

"It is not clear why we are seeing more activity than in recent years," said Marc Fischer, a medical epidemiologist at the CDC. "Regardless of the reasons for the increase, people should be aware of the West Nile virus activity in their area and take action to protect themselves and their family."