West Nile virus detected in SD for first time this virus season

The South Dakota Department of Health reports the first human case of the West Nile Virus this season. The case is out of Brookings county. South Dakota has reported more than 2,864 human cases and 54 deaths since West Nile was first reported in 2002. West Nile is primarily spread through mosquito bites and can be dangerous. Health officials urge residents to take reasonable precautions to prevent being bitten by mosquitos including wearing insect repellent, limiting outdoor activity in the morning at and dusk, removing standing water from your property and wearing clothing that covers your body while outside.