ELKHART COUNTY – Indiana has its first fatal case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis.

State Health officials say the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention confirmed an Elkhart County resident has died from the infection. That person’s name was not released.

It’s the first Indiana fatality from EEE since 1998. Only four other cases have occurred in the Hoosier state since 1964.

Symptoms include fever, chills, joint pain and body aches. Severe cases affect the nervous system and brain.

People younger than 15 and older than 50 are most at risk for severe forms of the disease. Persons who suspect they may have symptoms should see their doctor.

State Health officials say Hoosiers should take steps to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate breeding sites.