PHOENIX (AP) - Arizona’s most populous county is reporting its first death from West Nile virus this year.

Maricopa County Department of Public Health officials on Thursday confirmed that “an older adult” with other health conditions has died.

The agency has recorded 27 cases of the virus in people so far.

County health officials say elderly people with other chronic health issues are more susceptible to complications from the virus.

West Nile virus is transmitted through bites from an infected mosquito. Symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches and muscle fatigue. But more severe cases can end in paralysis or death.

Residents are being reminded to use mosquito repellent when outdoors and should remove any standing water outside the home, such as in potted plants and pet dishes.

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