Sacramento County health officials have announced the first West Nile virus-related death in the county.

The victim is a 72-year-old man from North Highlands.

Sacramento County's health officer, Dr. Glennah Trochet, said the man died from encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain that is caused by a viral infection.

Trochet said it is critical that residents take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.