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10 Human Cases Of West Nile Virus In Evanston

EVANSTON, Ill. (CBS) -- Officials in Evanston confirm that the number of West Nile Virus cases in the city among humans is continuing to grow.

As WBBM Newsradio Political Editor Craig Dellimore reports, Evanston environmental health manager Carl Caneva says the city did not want to hit the milestone it has now reached.

"We've confirmed, as of this morning, that we have 10 human cases of West Nile virus in Evanston," he said.

This comes after years of not having any human cases at all.

"The concern was caused by a higher mosquito population. That happened because we had a warmer-than-usual spring," Caneva said. "And so when that happens, the mosquitoes breed quicker, they multiply quicker, they're able to have more small mosquitoes that grow into adult mosquitoes and then infect humans."

The warning – if you're outside at dusk or dawn, wear long sleeves and get mosquito repellent, and get rid of standing water around your property where the bugs can breed.

LISTEN: WBBM Newsradio Political Editor Craig Dellimore reports

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