Man From Benton County Dies From West Nile Virus

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — State health officials say a Benton County man has died from West Nile virus, the first such death this year in Washington.

The Department of Health said Thursday that the man in his 80s was likely exposed to the virus near his home. He was hospitalized before he died.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is testing to confirm the infection.

Ten others in Washington have been diagnosed with West Nile virus infection, with most of them in Benton County.

West Nile is transmitted to humans and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. Flu-like symptoms can occur. Most people have a low risk of serious illness, but older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions have a greater risk of developing complications.