According to U.S. health officials, the number of Americans infected with the West Nile virus (WVN) as of August, has risen to 87.

Experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that number is up from 33 a week prior

A second victim has died from the West Nile virus in Mississippi.

A resident of Scott County has become the 12th victim, nationally, this year as America heads into the speak season for the deadly virus

The first new case of the West Nile Virus has appeared this year in Alberta, Canada.

Health officials confirm the virus was found in Medicine Hat, where mosquitoes under surveillance tested positive

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has appointed Mark Goldberger, MD, MPH, as the new Medical Director for Emerging and Pandemic Threat Preparedness in FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER).

In this new position, Dr. Goldberger will "plan, coordinate and implement activities related to the development and evaluation of products for emerging and pandemic threats

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has urged Kansas to start taking precautions against the West Nile Virus (WNV). Although no incidences have been reported so far in humans, birds, horses or mosquitoes, officials are saying that the virus will arrive soon.

Dr. Howard Rodenberg, KDHE Division of Health Director and State Health Officer said, "Kansans should begin taking precautions now to protect themselves and their families. Using insect repellent with DEET, wearing protective clothing and draining standing water will reduce your chances of getting bitten by a mosquito and becoming infected with West Nile Virus