BAKERSFIELD -- A 96-year-old Bakersfield woman died Wednesday from complications of West Nile virus, the Kern County Department of Public Health announced today.

The unidentified woman is the first person in California to die from West Nile this year.

West Nile is transmitted to humans, birds and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. The elderly and those in frail health are the most susceptible to the virus, according to health department officials.

Health officials are urging all residents to take the following precautions to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes which are carriers of the disease:

Eliminate all sources of stagnant or standing water where mosquitoes can breed

Avoid being outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active

When outdoors, wear long sleeves and long pants whenever possible

Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to label instructions

Make sure the doors and windows in your home have tight fitting screens with no holes or tears

Contact your mosquito abatement district if there is a significant mosquito problem where you live or work

Report any ill or dead birds and squirrels

Consult veterinarians to properly vaccinate horses