The Niagara County Department of Health has confirmed the first case of West Nile virus this year and are urging residents to protect against mosquito bites.

The DOH says the infected resident is currently hospitalized and that they are receiving care.

Niagara County Public Health Director Daniel Stapleton says that residents need to take preventive measures to protect themselves from mosquitoes.

"The most effective way to reduce the risk of infection from West Nile Virus is to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the mosquito population in and around your home," Stapleton said in a statement. 

To protect yourself from mosquitoes, the DOH recommends: 

• Minimize exposure to mosquito bites by using insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wear long-sleeves, and long pants, tuck pants into socks, and tuck shirts into pants when outdoors during increased mosquito activity times at dusk or dawn
• Remove sources of standing water
• Maintain and repair window and door screens

According to the New York State Department of Health, mild symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph nodes. In some cases, more severe symptoms and death can occur.