TWIN FALLS COUNTY, Idaho -- The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare confirmed the state's first West Nile virus-related death of 2025, involving a Twin Falls County resident over age 65.

West Nile virus can cause fever-related illness or brain and spinal cord infections, including meningitis or encephalitis.

The department announced the fatality on Friday and emphasized the need for people to protect themselves from mosquito bites. West Nile virus spreads through bites from infected mosquitoes.

This year, the virus has been detected in mosquitoes across seven southern Idaho counties and neighboring Malheur County, Oregon. However, it is important to note that not all counties collect and test mosquitoes for the virus.

"We strongly encourage Idahoans to fight the bite of mosquitoes to protect themselves and their families," said Deputy State Epidemiologist Dr. Kathy Turner. "This tragic death from West Nile virus is a good reminder for all of us to take protective measures against mosquito bites."

According to the department, most people infected with the West Nile virus show no symptoms. Those infected develop fever along with symptoms including headache, body aches, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, swollen lymph glands or rash.

Severe illness affects the brain and spinal cord in approximately one in 150 infected people, often requiring hospitalization. About 10% of those with severe West Nile virus die from the illness.

Older adults and people with certain medical conditions face higher risks of severe illness. Recovery from serious cases may take weeks or months, with some effects potentially permanent.

The department recommends avoiding mosquitoes, particularly between dusk and dawn when they are most active. Prevention measures include:

Wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants outdoors. Applying EPA-registered insect repellents to exposed skin, following label instructions carefully for children. Using clothing and gear treated with permethrin

Covering strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting. Repairing or replacing damaged screens to insect-proof homes. Eliminating standing water on property by checking and draining outdoor containers. Changing water in bird baths, decorative ponds and animal tanks weekly

The EPA provides a search tool for finding appropriate repellents, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers an Insect Repellent Chatbot for guidance.

Anyone who believes they may be sick from West Nile virus should consult their healthcare provider.