COLUMBUS, Ohio — An Ohio mother is urging parents to stay vigilant after her 5-year-old daughter contracted La Crosse virus, a rare but potentially serious illness spread by infected mosquitoes .

According to the Ohio Department of Health, the state reports more human cases of La Crosse virus than any other in the country, averaging about 20 cases annually. More than 90% of those infected are children under the age of 15.

In severe cases, the virus can lead to seizures, coma, paralysis — and even death.

Emily, a bubbly kindergartner, is finally home after a weeks-long hospital stay. Her mother, Kristy M., an emergency room nurse, said the symptoms came on suddenly and were unlike anything she had seen before.

“She was kind of lifeless, which is very not like her,” Kristy said. “Di

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