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West Nile Virus Reported in 2 Montana People Older Than 60

Two people older than 60 were hospitalized after contracting the disease in Custer and Lewis and Clark counties

By Justin Franz

BILLINGS — Montana health officials say West Nile virus has been reported in humans for the first time in the state this season.

The Billings Gazette reports that the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services have announced two people older than 60 were hospitalized after contracting the disease in Custer and Lewis and Clark counties.

The department says a pool of mosquitoes collected in Yellowstone, Cascade, Blaine, Valley, and Sheridan counties have also tested positive for the virus, including one horse-infected case in Lake County.

Health officials say positive mosquito pools in seven counties, 51 human West Nile virus cases, one related death and 50 horse cases were reported last year.

Officials say most people do not develop any symptoms, which can include fever, headache, body aches, and skin rash.