Three people have died and 15 more have been hospitalized in Missouri after they contracted West Nile Virus, state health officials said.

There have been 16 reported cases of West Nile virus in Missouri so far this year, with more cases currently under investigation, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services said in a news release on Oct. 8 . Health officials said the number of infections this year is the highest they've been in recent times.

"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."

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