KYRA PHILLIPS, CNN ANCHOR: Well, from New Jersey to Massachusetts, health officials say the West Nile Virus is spreading. Now authorities in New York have confirmed the year's first human case of the mosquito borne disease. CNN's Brian Palmer has the details.</s>BRIAN PALMER, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Health officials were waiting for this moment to arrive.</s>DR. STEVE OSTROFF, CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL: This is the first evidence that we've had this year of a human case either in New York City or anywhere else.</s>PALMER: The 78-year-old Staten Island man was diagnosed with a brain inflammation caused by West Nile Virus and released from the hospital after a week. He felt ill on July 20th, before the city launched a major spraying campaign to kill mosquitoes. Health officials advised the public not to over react.</s>OSTROFF: And I think through the efforts that are going on here as well as elsewhere that we should be able to minimize any impact on human health.</s>PALMER: Still, tests indicate the virus is spreading, appearing as far north as Massachusetts and as far south as New Jersey. Health officials announced its appearance in five additional New York counties Thursday and four more counties on Friday, totaling 15 of New York's 62 counties. That, health officials say, indicates the virus is present statewide. Last year, 62 people became ill, seven died. But officials say they're better prepared this year. (on camera): The virus poses the greatest risk for the elderly, the young and people with weakened immune systems. But health officials here are advising everyone to take precautions. Cover up when outdoors and wear insect repellant. Brian Palmer, CNN, New York.
Authorities Confirm Outbreak of West Nile Disease