West Nile virus fond in Columbus mosquitoes

The West Nile Virus has been found in mosquitoes in Bartholomew County.

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

The health department says that the finding is something that is normally expected in the mosquito population late in summer and early fall. Upcoming cold weather will stop the mosquitoes growth cycle.

The Health Department has been conducting fogging treatments around populated areas and areas where large public events are being held. The office also continues to trap and submit mosquitoes for sampling.

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.

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.

Mosquito photo courtesy of CDC