Health experts have found the West Nile virus in mosquitoes in Will County, Illinois.

Now the state has 21 counties, including Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, Lake, Kankakee and McHenry, with either mosquitoes, birds or both, infected with the potentially deadly virus

Prevention is the key to avoiding infection of the West Nile virus. With families intending to enjoy the outdoors for their 4th of July celebration activities, the use of mosquito repellants is highly recommended now as well as all summer long.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) suggests using an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent. Those repellents that contain DEET are best. However, do not use products with DEET on children under the age of 2 years. Also, cover infant carriers with netting

Reported U.S. cases of the West Nile virus rose more than 16 percent this year, according to the government.

The increase comes along the hurricane-struck Gulf Coast, where conditions such as standing water have made excellent habitats for mosquitoes, which are carriers for the virus

A 92-year-old woman is the first victim to fall to the deadly West Nile Virus, according to Chicago medical officials.

This is the first fatality case in Illinois this year, says the state Department of Public Health

A 92-year-old woman is the first victim to fall to the deadly West Nile Virus, according to Chicago medical officials.

This is the first fatality case in Illinois this year, says the state Department of Public Health