(Kristin Murphy, Deseret News, file)
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — The Utah Department of Health has confirmed this year’s first human death from West Nile virus.
Authorities said Saturday that a central Utah resident at least 65 years old died from the disease carried by mosquitoes sometime between Sept. 21 and 28.
Information about the victim including name and gender have not been released.
Utah health officials have confirmed 19 human cases West Nile virus this year.
The total is higher than last year, when 11 residents contracted the virus and one person died.
State health officials have said the wet spring Utah experienced this year created more standing water habitats for mosquitoes, attracting species that can transmit West Nile virus to Utah.
Symptoms include headaches, joint pains and a high fever.