(KLZA)-- With the first reported human case of West Nile virus reported in Nebraska for the 2025 season last week , the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is encouraging the public to take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from West Nile Virus.

While no mosquito pools have tested positive for WNV so far this season, it is important to remember that not all areas where mosquitoes might be found are sampled, but could still contain mosquitoes carrying the disease. These areas include any instance of standing water found in parks, communities, and backyards across our state.

West Nile Virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the U.S.

Ways that you can reduce the getting the disease include:

. Use a repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, lemon eucalyptus oil, or IR3535.
. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes, and socks when outside.
. Take extra precautions when going outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
. Drain standing water around your home. Empty and change the water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels, and potted trays at least once a week, if not more often.
. Irrigate lawns and gardens carefully to prevent water from standing for several days.
.Make sure window and door screens are “bug tight" and repair or replace torn screens.

Most people who are infected have no symptoms or only mild flu-like symptoms. Less than 1% of people infected with West Nile Virus become severely ill. However, people over 50 and those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to the disease and are more likely to experience serious consequences.