'There is a real health threat from a mosquito bite. I don't want to overmagnify it because there are so many other health threats going on. But we would be committing a disservice ... by trivializing or ignoring the problem.'

At least 108 Nebraskans have been sickened by West Nile virus this year, including one who died, state health officials reported today.

Dr. Tom Safranek, state epidemiologist, said there are probably far more cases that haven't been reported.

He said that's because many doctors don't test for the mosquito-borne virus until people become very sick and because a higher percentage of blood donors tests positive for the virus in Nebraska than in some neighboring states. Blood donors who test positive for the virus are not necessarily included in the official tally.

'Interesting and Real Increase'

"This year, we have what I consider to be an interesting and real increase," he said.

Safranek said the apparent surge after a mild West Nile season in 2004 underscores the unpredictability of West Nile virus from year to year and the need for continued precautions.

"Clearly, the landscape remains changed," he said. "In Nebraska, there is a real health threat from a mosquito bite. I don't want to overmagnify it because there are so many other health threats going on. But we would be committing a disservice to Nebraskans by trivializing or ignoring the problem."

Brain Damage, Death Possible

The virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito and causes a flu-like illness or no symptoms for most people.

But severe cases can cause brain damage, disorientation, convulsions, paralysis or death. People older than 50 and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop severe illness.

West Nile season typically peaks in Nebraska around Labor Day and ends with the first hard frost of fall.

West Nile virus in Nebraska 2002: 174 cases, 8 deaths 2003*: 2,366 cases, 29 deaths 2004: 54 cases, no deaths 2005 so far: 108 cases, 1 death