The nation's first 2024 West Nile Virus death recorded in Dallas County

A Dallas County woman was the county's first West Nile Virus death of the year.

Why it matters: West Nile Virus tends to be more prevalent during the summer.

The big picture: The virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States, though it isn't as prevalent as other illnesses. Thousands of cases are reported each year, per the Centers for Disease Control .

Zoom in: The Dallas patient lived in the 75230 ZIP code, which includes North Dallas, per Dallas County Health and Human Services.

• She had underlying health conditions and was diagnosed with West Nile neuroinvasive disease, a more serious infection affecting less than 1% of people who contract the virus.

Threat level: The virus can be spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. It isn't spread through casual contact, like touching or kissing, the CDC says.

• Dallas, Harris and four other counties reported 23% of U.S. cases from 2009–2018.
• About 20% develop flu-like symptoms.

What they're doing: Counties typically spray areas where mosquito samplings test positive for the virus.

What to do: Wear insect repellents containing DEET and cover exposed skin with long, loose and light-colored clothing.

• Eliminate standing water near home and work.
• Limit outdoor activities between dawn and dusk.

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