AP

The best way to avoid exposure to West Nile is to use insect repellant containing DEET.

The first human case of West Nile virus this season in Dallas County has been confirmed, officials said Friday.

Dallas County Health and Human Services said the patient with West Nile encephalitis lives in the 75180 ZIP code and is recovering.

Last year, Dallas County had 23 confirmed cases of West Nile virus and no deaths. In 2006, the county had 106 confirmed cases and four deaths. According to the health department, the best way to avoid exposure to West Nile is to use insect repellant containing DEET, drain any standing water and dress in long clothing.

For information about local infected mosquito pools, e-mail westnile@dallascounty.org and ask to be added to the "West Nile Watch" distribution list. For mosquito-related information in Dallas County, call 214-819-2115 or visit www.dallascounty.org.