JEFFERSON CITY — Three Missourians have died from West Nile virus so far this year as state health officials warn they are seeing a big rise in cases of the mosquito-borne virus.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services issued a warning late Thursday, urging residents to take precautions, such as wearing insect repellant with DEET and eliminating standing water around homes, which is where mosquitoes breed.

“West Nile virus is a serious public health concern, and this year’s increase in cases is a reminder that we must remain vigilant,” said Dr. George Turabelidze, state epidemiologist at DHSS. “We are asking all Missourians to take simple but effective steps to protect themselves and their families.”

Infection from the virus often causes no symptoms, but about one in five

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