Fresno County reports first West Nile virus case of 2014

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A Southwest Fresno man is the first person in Fresno County to be infected with West Nile virus this year, and local health officials are urging people to protect themselves from mosquitoes.

The virus can be transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with the virus do not feel ill but some will experience mild flu-like symptoms. A smaller percentage develop serious complications.

The Fresno County Health Department says the Fresno man was hospitalized but has been released.

Last year, 379 people in California were infected by the virus and 15 died. In Fresno County, eight cases were reported with no deaths.