State health officials say a Marion County resident has become the first person in Indiana to die from West Nile virus in 2009.
The virus is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes that have bitten an infected bird. Most human cases in Indiana occur in August and September.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Indiana had four cases in 2008, none of which were fatal.
Symptoms can include fever, head and body aches, swollen lymph glands and a rash. Severe cases can cause encephalitis, meningitis or neurological problems.
State Health Commissioner Judy Monroe urges residents to use mosquito repellant, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and avoid being outdoors between dusk and dawn.
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