1 West Nile Virus death reported in Ala.

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MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) -

Cases of the West Nile Virus across the U.S. are about three times higher than normal for this time of year.

In Alabama, the number of confirmed infections has risen to 12 human cases and the CDC is now reporting one death in the state. That death is confirmed to have been in Montgomery County.

Montgomery County has been the hardest hit county in the state with six confirmed cases. Mobile County has three confirmed cases. Tuscaloosa, Jefferson and Baldwin Counties each have one confirmed case.

The West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and causes symptoms such fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea and/or rash. Only 20% of those infected will show symptoms.

Health Department officials say that people should not panic about this, but that doesn't mean they shouldn't take steps to protect themselves.

Experts recommend eliminating standing water from around your home, because that's where mosquitoes breed. You can also take precautions when it comes to clothing.

Debra Williams of the Madison County Health Department says, "you need to be wearing long sleeves and long pants. When you go outside use insecticide with DEET in it. Stay out of the outside as much as you can at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes will bite the most."

So far, West Nile infections have been reported in 38 states. The CDC has recorded more than 1100 infected people and 41 deaths, but health officials say they expect reported cases to rise dramatically.

The disease generally peaks in mid-August and new infections generally take a couple of weeks to show up in the tally.

Animals can also be victims of the West Nile virus. If you own a horse, you may want to have it vaccinated for the virus.

Within the past week, doctors have seen an increase in the number of horse owners requesting the vaccine. One Birmingham horse has already died from the virus and there could be more cases.

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1 West Nile Virus death reported in Ala. - WSFA.com: News Weather and Sports for Montgomery, AL.

1 West Nile Virus death reported in Ala.

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