(CNN) California has confirmed the first death from the West Nile virus in the state for 2021. The death occurred in San Luis Obispo County, according to a news release from the California Department of Public Health. "West Nile virus activity in the state is increasing, so I urge Californians to take every possible precaution to protect against mosquito bites," Dr. Tomás Aragón, the state public health officer and health department director, said in the news release. West Nile virus is usually spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The virus has been identified in 177 mosquitoes from 13 counties throughout the state, according to the health department.

Source: CNN July 12, 2021 00:11 UTC