West Nile virus found in Cache County mosquitoes

SALT LAKE CITY — Samples collected in Cache County have tested positive for West Nile virus.

The Utah State Public Health Laboratory confirmed the presence of the virus on Friday.

According to the Cache County Mosquito Abatement District, the infected mosquito pools were collected in the cities of Amalga and Trenton.

Cache County officials said they will continue surveillance and abatement efforts. These include larviciding, or targeting mosquito larvae before they mature, and fogging, which is conducted at night when the mosquitoes that are known carriers of West Nile virus are most active.

Protect yourself against West Nile

You can avoid being bitten by a mosquito, and lessen your chances for becoming infected with West Nile virus, by:

• Using insect repellent containing DEET.
• Getting rid of standing water around your home’s exterior.
• Wearing long sleeves and pants at dusk, and dawn.
• Keeping roof gutters clear of debris.
• Cleaning or draining swimming pools regularly.
• Trimming tall grass and weeds (where adult mosquitoes hang out in the daytime).
• And ensuring all window and door screens are in good working order.

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