GRAND ISLAND, Neb.-- A health department in the central Nebraska area is advising people to take precautions. 
 
According to a news release from the Central District Health Department, the first human case of West Nile virus has been reported in the area. 
 
The CDHD is advising people to take precautions because West Nile Virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the US. 
 
The virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms begin within three to 15 days after the bite. About one in five people infected show very mild or no symptoms, generally a fever and headache. 
 
CDHD advises people to apply mosquito repellent containing DEET, avoid going out at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wear long sleeves shirts and long pants, and eliminate standing water to reduce mosquito breeding sites. 
 
The CDHD covers the areas of Hall, Merrick and Hamilton counties.