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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The North Dakota Department of Health announced today that the state’s second West Nile virus-related death has been confirmed in 2016.

The NDDoH reports that the man, who resided in central North Dakota, was 60 years of age.

“This death is an unfortunate reminder that West Nile virus can cause very severe disease, especially for those over 60,” said Laura Cronquist, epidemiologist with the NDDoH. “Until there is a hard frost to get rid of the remaining mosquito population, the risk is still present and people should continue to use personal precautions.”

To date, 60 human West Nile virus cases have been reported in 24 counties this year. In 2015, North Dakota had 23 cases and one related death.

Signs and symptoms of severe West Nile virus include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, coma, and paralysis. People with these symptoms should see a health care provider immediately. About 10 percent of people who develop neurologic infection due to West Nile virus will die from the infection.

Contact Laura Cronquist for more information at 701-328-2378.