Source: Photo by Patrick Pleul/picture alliance via Getty Image

LAKE COUNTY, Indiana — The first confirmed West Nile virus infection in Indiana came from Lake County in the northwestern part of the state.

No further information about the infected person was released Thursday evening by the Indiana Department of Health. West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes in 15 different counties in Indiana.

“Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance: their bites can potentially cause serious illness.” State Health Commissioner Lindsay Weaver said: “Indiana residents can reduce their risk by wearing insect repellent and taking steps to eliminate breeding sites, such as standing water in used tires or other containers around their homes.”

West Nile virus infections are usually not serious. Typically, an infected person may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.

However, the virus can have more serious effects in people aged 60 and over or in those suffering from diseases such as cancer. These symptoms can include damage to the nervous system, inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, muscle paralysis or even death.

You can reduce the risk of mosquitoes congregating near your home by keeping the general hygiene of your home and yard clean and tidy. Most people are unaware of the danger posed by areas where water can easily accumulate during rain. If water accumulates in trash cans, tires, buckets, toys, swimming pools, bird baths, flower pot saucers or trash cans, it can become an easy breeding ground for mosquitoes of all kinds.

Mosquitoes in Marion County tested positive for West Nile virus last week.