West Nile virus found in Bartholomew County mosquitoes

The West Nile Virus has been found in mosquitoes in Bartholomew County for the first time this year.

According to the Bartholomew County Health Department, samples from pools of mosquitoes have been analyzed and were confirmed to contain the virus. Mosquitoes are able to transmit disease by biting humans and animals and infecting them.

Most people who get infected with West Nile Virus will have either no symptoms or very mild symptoms. Severe cases are most often present in those more than 50 years old or those with a weakened immune system.

Health officials have said that the finding is something that is normally expected in the mosquito population late in summer and early fall. The Health Department will be concentrating their mosquito control efforts in the areas the West Nile Virus activity has been detected.

Health officials say that you should make sure your property is free from any standing water, which could be breeding grounds for mosquitos. That could include flower pots, buckets, animal water bowls or clogged gutters. Mosquitos also breed in accumulations of sewage water so you should make sure that all septic systems are not discharging to the surface.

If you are going to be outside, you should use an insect repellent containing DEET, wear lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants and avoid the prime time for mosquitoes which is from dusk to dawn.

West Nile Virus Mosquito photo courtesy of CDC