81-year-old in Oakland Co. dies from West Nile Virus

(WJBK) - An 81-year-old woman from Oakland County died due to complications from the West Nile Virus, confirms The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

This is the first human West Nile Virus-related death in Oakland County since 2003 and the first death this year in Michigan.

"This is a tragic reminder of how severe West Nile Virus can be, especially for adults over 50 who are at greater risk for severe illness," said George Miller, director of Oakland County Department of Health and Human Services. "We strongly encourage residents to protect themselves and family members from mosquitoes, even as we enter the fall season."