West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitoes located in Uintah County. According to TriCounty Health Department, the mosquitoes which tested positive were from collections made on July 11th in western Uintah County near Ouray and Pelican Lake. “Uintah Mosquito abatement routinely traps mosquitoes throughout the county, and tests them for West Nile Virus in batches in an effort to inform the public of disease risk,” shares the announcement. “West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The only known species in the area which currently spreads West Nile Virus is the culex tarsalis species, which is typically active between dusk and dawn. Individuals who will be outside during these hours are advised to wear long sleeves and long pants and to use a repellent containing DEET. DEET can safely be used by adults, pregnant women and children older than two months. TriCounty Health recommends that property owners remove standing water near homes to prevent mosquito nesting sites. TriCounty Health also recommends that homeowners should keep doors and window screens in good condition and keep bird baths, pools, and decorative ponds clean and mosquito-free.”
