BISMARCK -- North Dakota's second reported human case of the West Nile virus is a Dickey County woman in her 20s, state health officials say.
The woman was hospitalized, officials said, but her name and condition were not released. The state's first reported human West Nile case, late last month, was a Cass County woman more than 60 years old. She was not hospitalized.
Michelle Feist, the state Health Department's West Nile virus surveillance coordinator, said it is a reminder that people should protect themselves from mosquito bites. The virus is carried by mosquitoes.
"We're seeing high numbers of mosquitoes in general," Feist said.
North Dakota recorded 137 human cases of the West Nile virus last year.
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"Essentially, everyone is at risk of developing illness when they get West Nile infection," Feist said Thursday. "Those age 50 and older are at a higher risk of developing more serious illness."
Feist said two birds from Cass County and one from Grand Forks also have tested positive for the West Nile virus so far this year.
The peak period for the virus is considered to be late July and early August.
