\r\n Oklahoma has experienced its first West Nile Virus death in 2022. The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported that a resident in Central Oklahoma was hospitalized in late June with the virus but has now passed away.

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\r\n West Nile Virus spreads through the bite of a mosquito that has been infected by feeding on an infected bird. Mosquitoes are prevalent during summer months when temperatures are high and water stands for long periods during dry weather. People are also outside more, making them a target for mosquitos. While the vast majority of people will not contract the virus, those who do often have long-term complications because the virus affects the nervous system.

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\r\n The best defense against West Nile is to use insect repellent while outside, including spraying on clothing and shoes. You should also keep windows and doors to your home sealed to keep mosquitos out of your house. Dump water from pet’s bowls or flower pots frequently.

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\r\n For details of the symptoms, visit the Oklahoma Department of Health’s website at Oklahoma.gov/health.

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