Human case of West Nile virus reported in Nebraska for first time this year

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Nebraska has reported its first human case this season of West Nile virus.

Health officials said Wednesday the case is in the East Central District Health Department, which covers Boone, Colfax, Nance and Platte counties.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said no mosquito pools in the state have tested positive for the virus yet this year.

But DHHS emphasized that not all areas are sampled.

Most people who get West Nile have mild symptoms — or no symptoms at all.

But those over 50 and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to get seriously sick.

“Since there is no vaccine or specific medicine to treat West Nile virus, it is important for Nebraskans to take preventive steps to reduce their risk of mosquito-borne illness and enjoy their summer safely,” Dr. Sydney Stein, the state epidemiologist, said in a press release.