First human case of West Nile virus found in Monterey County

MONTEREY, Calif. -- Health officials say the first Monterey County resident to get West Nile virus since 2009 is out of the hospital and recovering.

The illness's first victim in years was hospitalized after displaying virus-like symptoms, according to the Monterey County Health Department.

The department said that the person was out of state when they contracted the illness.

West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitoes in 40 California counties and affected 216 people around the nation. Ten Californians have died of the virus or related illnesses this year, according to the Monterey County Health Department.

The health department recommends a few key steps for reducing the risk of contracting West Nile virus. Those precautions include draining sources of standing water like flowerpots, pet bowls and rain gutters. Other suggested steps include using insect repellant and dressing to reduce insect bites-- especially in early morning and evening when mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus are most likely to bite.

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