West Nile Virus has been detected in Uintah County and health department officials encourage residents to take prevention tips seriously. Health officials announced that mosquito pools in both Uintah and Salt Lake County tested positive for the virus. Thankfully there have been no animal or human cases so far. West Nile Virus has been in the US since about the year 2000. Mosquitoes get the virus from birds and then infect humans. Mosquitoes breed in existing water in yards, ponds, pools or anywhere there is standing water. Get rid of standing water around your home to prevent mosquito nests. Taking simple precautions to avoid mosquito bites is the best way to reduce risk for infection. Wear long-sleeves, long pants, and socks while outdoors and use an insect repellent with 20%-30% DEET. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during the evening or early morning. Remove standing water. Report bodies of stagnant water to your local Mosquito Abatement District.
