Mosquitoes infected with West Nile Virus found in southern Indiana county

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A southern Indiana county is sounding the alarm after finding mosquitoes infected with West Nile Virus.

In a news release, the Floyd County Health Department said on Monday that it found mosquito samples that tested positive for the virus during the weeks of July 6, Aug. 2 and Aug. 12.

No human cases have been identified in Floyd County, but residents are being warned to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. The best way to prevent bites is to use DEET and other repellents, wear long sleeves and pants, and if possible, avoid being outside between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.

Homeowners are also being asked to survey property to watch for mosquito breeding sites including clogged gutters, old tires, failing septic systems, abandoned pools and any items holding standing water.

Homeowners should also maintain overgrown grass, shrubs and trees, which can give mosquitoes a place to hide during the day.

For information about Floyd County's West Nile Virus surveillance program or to have a mosquito trap placed at your property, call 812-948-4726 , option 2 and then option 1 to speak to an environmentalist. You can also visit their website, www.floydcounty.in.gov.

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