An adult living in the Baltimore metro area has tested positive for the West Nile virus, according to the Maryland Department of Health. The health department says this is the first confirmed human case of the virus in Maryland this year.

West Nile virus is transmitted to people by mosquitoes who have been infected by feeding on birds that have the virus, according to health officials.

In rare cases, it can be spread between people during organ donations or from a pregnant mother to a fetus, say health experts.

“We are in the season when we start to see West Nile virus spread in Maryland,” said MDH Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services Dr. Jinline Chan in a news release. “We urge people to be vigilant and take steps to avoid infection. Disease surveillance teams are closely monitoring for any signs of increased numbers of infected mosquitoes that may turn up in areas across the state."... Read More: FOX45