First Human Case of West Nile Virus Confirmed in Livingston County

LIVINGSTON COUNTY — Get the bug spray out! West Nile Virus has been found in the area.

New York State Department of Health officials confirmed the first human case of mosquito-borne West Nile virus in Livingston County this season on Oct. 2.

“West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne infection that can cause serious illness, and in some cases, death,” the Livingston County Department of Health stated. “Although a person’s chances of getting sick are small, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.”

To avoid mosquito bites, the Department of Health recommends eliminate standing water, wear protective clothing at dusk, and used bug repellent containing DEET.

Oftentimes, no symptoms will present themselves, but fevers, headaches, body aches, and other mild-symptoms may appear if infected.

For more information, contact the Livingston County Department of Health.