LAPORTE COUNTY, Ind. (WNDU) – Health officials said West Nile virus has been detected in some mosquitoes in LaPorte County.
The LaPorte County Health Department said a group of mosquitoes tested last month tested positive for the virus.
This is the first positive identification of West Nile virus in LaPorte County this year.
According to health authorities, the species most likely to transmit the virus are those that prefer to breed in containers, so they urge you to take the following precautions:
Avoid standing water in gardens and around houses.
- Clean birdbaths and wading pools weekly.
- Clean clogged gutters.
- Empty flower pots of standing water twice a week.
- Dispose of old tires.
- Store buckets, jars and other containers upside down.
Health officials also say that many of the mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus are likely to bite at dusk and dawn. If you are outdoors during these times, you should use insect repellent and take the following steps:
- Use enough repellent to cover exposed skin or clothing. Do not apply repellent to skin that is under clothing. A thick application is not necessary to achieve protection.
- Do not apply the repellent to cuts, wounds or irritated skin.
- After returning home, wash the treated skin with soap and water.
- Do not spray aerosol or pump products in enclosed spaces.
- Do not apply aerosol or pump products directly to your face. Spray your hands and then gently rub them over your face, avoiding your eyes and mouth.
Earlier this summer, West Nile virus was detected in mosquitoes in St. Joseph County and Elkhart County.
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