Cherokee County is the latest to report a death resulting from the West Nile virus.

The Northeast Texas Public Health District confirmed the death after receiving results from the Texas Department of State Health Service.

Two other West Nile deaths have occurred in East Texas, Gregg and Panola County each reporting a person having succumbed to West Nile.

Health officials say it’s the worst year ever for West Nile in Texas. DSHS says at least 43 people have died from the virus in Texas, and more than a 1,000 cases of West Nile have been confirmed in the state. Officials expect the number to increase through mid-October.

DSHS reminds Texans to reduce the risk of exposure by eliminating standing water and other mosquito breeding areas; making sure door, porch and window screens are in good condition; and using a repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 when outdoors.

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