West Nile claims fourth Houston resident

A fourth Houston resident has died from the West Nile virus this year, adding to what officials have said is the most lethal outbreak of the disease in the state's history.

The latest death was a 75- to -84-year-old man from northwest Houston, according to Houston's Department of Health and Human Services. His infection was reported on Sept. 10.

The other deaths were reported in June and August. Those who died were between 55 and 84, officials said.

Nearly 50 people in Houston have been diagnosed with the virus. On Monday, the total for the city was 43 but by Thursday the number had jumped to 49.

In Harris County, excluding Houston, 16 West Nile cases have been reported. No deaths have been reported.

State health officials have confirmed at least 1,219 in Texas have been infected and 57 people have died this year. Officials have warned that the number of cases and deaths will keep rising at least into October.

There are no vaccines to prevent West Nile infections and no medications exist to treat the disease.

mike.glenn@chron.com