The City of Lubbock Health Department has confirmed the first human West Nile Virus case for 2014.

dr-relling, flickr
dr-relling, flickr
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West Nile Virus is a disease transmissible only through the vector of mosquitoes. Symptoms typically develop between two days to two weeks and present as fever, weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, eye pain, muscle aches and swollen glands.

The Health Department warns that the elderly and those with weak immune systems face the greatest risk from the disease, and stresses the importance of minimizing contact to mosquitoes.

The rainy summer is partially to blame for the amount of mosquitoes but steps can be taken to minimize exposure to the bugs. Some efforts include removing standing water and keeping grass cut short on properties, wearing pants and long sleeves and using repellants containing up to 10 percent DEET.

Residents are asked to report areas facing issues with mosquitoes by calling the Mosquito Hotline at 775-3110.

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