OGEMAW CO. -- The dangerous West Nile Virus is hitting close to home with a death reported in Ogemaw County.

A 65-year-old man from Ogemaw County died this week from the West Nile Virus.  The Michigan Department of Community Health reports eight people have died from the virus in the state this year.

2012 will likely be the deadliest year for West Nile in U.S. history.

There are 183 reported cases of West Nile Virus in Michigan so far this year.   In 2011 there were 34 West Nile cases in humans reported, with two deaths related to the virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows more than 26,000 cases of West Nile this year across the country.

To see a map of where the West Nile cases are in Michigan click here.  You can find more details on the West Nile Virus, including how to protect yourself and your family,  here.