ATLANTA — The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is reporting 17 confirmed cases of West Nile virus across the state as mosquito season continues through October.

Health officials are urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites by using repellents registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Georgia’s only confirmed death connected to West Nile virus was reported in September.

DPH continues to encourage residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites as the season continues.