The Texas Department of State Health Services reports the illness was confirmed on June 24. DSHS advises anyone experiencing symptoms of West Nile virus to contact their healthcare provider

The first case of West Nile virus in Texas this year has been confirmed in Brazos County, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.The patient, a local resident, was diagnosed with West Nile fever on June 24.

West Nile Virus was first reported in the U.S. in 1999. The virus spreads through mosquito bites, although most people who catch it won’t experience symptoms. About 20% of those infected will develop symptoms such as fever. Less than 1% of those infected will develop a more severe and sometimes fatal illness.