INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WOWO): State health officials have confirmed the first death from West Nile virus this year, in Vigo County. 

Overall 20 cases have been reported and 87 counties have tested positive for mosquitoes carrying the virus. Last year, there were 77 reports and eight deaths in Indiana. Officials say while the risk has minimized with cooler fall conditions, there is still a risk of being bitten and contracting the virus.

“Although we’re past the normal peak season for West Nile virus, which was in August and September,” said Jennifer House, DVM, Director of Zoonotic and Environmental Epidemiology at the Indiana State Department of Health, “there’s still a risk of becoming infected on warmer days when mosquitoes are biting, so Hoosiers should continue to take precautions.”

She adds, the following steps will help protect you from West Nile virus: