Evergreen Park Mayor James Sexton featured in West Nile prevention campaign

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) launched a new West Nile Virus prevention campaign featuring virus survivor and Evergreen Park Mayor James Sexton. His short prevention video began airing this week at all movie theaters in suburban Cook County. The campaign will continue until the end of September.

So far this year, three dead birds and 58 mosquito pools in 58 communities in suburban Cook County have tested positive for West Nile virus, according to CCDPH.

Most people infected with the virus show no symptoms and never become ill, but illness can occur 3-15 days after an infected mosquito bite. Symptoms include fever, headache and body aches. People over 50 are at higher risk for serious complications from encephalitis or meningitis if they become infected, and people who experience high fever, confusion, muscle weakness, severe headaches, or a stiff neck should see a doctor immediately.

For more information about Mayor Sexton's story and to learn more about the West Nile virus in suburban Cook County, visit www.cookcountypublichealth.org.