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Livingston County has 1st human case of West Nile virus this season

Monroe County health department officials confirm 2018's first case of West Nile virus.
Monroe County health department officials confirm 2018's first case of West Nile virus.

Livingston County has its first human case of mosquito-borne West Nile Virus this season.

According to information on the county’s website, the New York State Department of Health has confirmed that case. County officials say they are working closely with the state and the person who has the virus.

Last month, officials in Monroe County reported that a county resident died from the virus.

It’s the only death from the disease in New York State so far this year,

Health officials say that West Nile is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, and those at highest risk for severe illness are those with compromised immune systems and the elderly.

Officials say even though the chances of catching the virus are slim, you should take precautions like using insect repellant, wearing long sleeves and pants when possible and getting rid of standing water.

Randy Gorbman is WXXI's director of news and public affairs. Randy manages the day-to-day operations of WXXI News on radio, television, and online.