First Human Case of West Nile Reported in Pa.

A Philadelphia man has been infected with the state’s first human case of West Nile Virus this year, the Pennsylvania Department of Health reported Friday.

The man was hospitalized due to the infection and has since recovered.

State officials are “strongly” recommending that all residents minimize their exposure to mosquitoes.

“Detecting the first human case serves as a great reminder for Pennsylvanians to take the proper precautions when they are outside or near areas where mosquitoes are prevalent,” Secretary of Health Michael Wolf said. “There are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones from mosquito-related diseases.”

The Department of Environmental Protection conducts regular surveillance and control to manage mosquito populations around the state. So far this year, West Nile infected insects have been located in 32 counties, including in Philadelphia, Bucks and Montgomery.

Although mosquitoes can bite at any time of day or night, they are most active at dawn and dusk, state officials said in a news release.

State officials offer the following tips for minimizing exposure to mosquitos: