Philadelphia has officially recorded its first human cases of West Nile Virus this year as health officials continue to administer mosquito spraying and safety guidance.
At least four human cases have been reported as of Sept. 4, according to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.
The department has yet to provide an updated count following the holiday weekend.
Per the release, Philadelphia is not alone in West Nile cases. At least two human cases were identified in Alleghany County, and mosquitos carrying the virus were recorded in at least 46 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties.
Is West Nile Virus fatal?
While most people infected with the virus won't exhibit symptoms, it can be fatal for others.
Some may experience mild, flu-like symptoms with infection, while others
can develop severe illness impacting the central nervous system leading to hospitalization or death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Who is at higher risk for West Nile Virus?
While anyone can carry or be infected by the virus, the CDC cautions that some may be at higher risk for severe illness.
This includes those 65 and older, who are three times as likely to develop neurological illness than their younger counterparts.
Individuals with weakened immune systems and those that have certain chronic conditions, like high blood pressure, kidney disease, diabetes or cancer are also at higher risk.
Kaitlyn McCormick is a Philadelphia-based reporter writing all things trending, breaking and city-related for USA TODAY's Philadelphia Metro Connect Team.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Philadelphia reports first West Nile Virus cases, is it fatal?
