STURTEVANT, Wis. (CBS 58) — Health officials in Racine County are urging residents to continue protecting themselves from mosquito bites after confirming the county's first human case of West Nile virus this year.

The Racine County Public Health Division and City of Racine Public Health Department announced the case in a Racine County resident.

Other human cases of West Nile virus have already been reported elsewhere in Wisconsin this year, while the virus has also been detected in mosquitoes and animals in other parts of the state.

West Nile virus is spread to people, birds and other animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds.

The virus is not spread directly from person to person, animal to animal or animal to person.

West Nile virus illnesses are most common in Wisconsin during August and September, but health officials say the risk remains anytime mosquitoes are active.

Other mosquito-borne illnesses found in Wisconsin include Jamestown Canyon virus, La Crosse encephalitis virus and eastern equine encephalitis virus.

Most people infected with West Nile virus do not become sick. Those who develop symptoms typically experience mild illness, which can include fever, headache, muscle aches, rash and fatigue.

Fewer than 1% of people infected develop serious illness. Severe symptoms can include high fever, muscle weakness, a stiff neck, disorientation, confusion, tremors, paralysis and coma.

Older adults and people with compromised immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe illness, which can be fatal.

Health officials say the best way to prevent West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses is to reduce exposure to mosquitoes and eliminate areas where they can breed.

Residents are encouraged to use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 on exposed skin and clothing. Clothing can also be treated with permethrin before going outdoors.

People can further reduce their risk by wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants and considering rescheduling outdoor activities during the early morning and evening hours, when mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus are most active.

Mosquitoes typically remain active until the first hard frost, meaning health officials are urging residents to continue taking precautions throughout early fall.