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The increase in West Nile virus cases in the U.S. over the past week, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  As of Wednesday, a total of 1,590 cases of the disease have been reported to the CDC, including 66 deaths. The U.S. is seeing higher than average rate of infections this year, especially in southern states which account for about 70% of the cases. Health officials say the best way to stay disease-free is to avoid mosquito bites since the insects carry the disease. The CDC recommends staying inside at dawn and dusk, covering exposed skin, spraying yourself with insect repellent before going outdoors and draining any standing water around your home that attracts mosquitos. [via USA Today]

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