Protect Yourself From West Nile Virus

(KNOX) -West Nile virus has been identified in the Grand Forks region.

The cities of Grand Forks and East Grand Forks urge citizens to take extra precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

The mosquito most common for transmitting West Nile virus is the Culex tarsalis. This mosquito is most active from sundown and throughout the night into the early morning hours.

To help reduce your risk of getting West Nile virus, the Health Department recommends the following protective measures:

–Use insect repellent that contains DEET.

–Limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

–Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when possible.

–Eliminate standing water around homes (e.g., buckets, flowerpots, old tires, wading pools and birdbaths).

For more information about trap counts and the Grand Forks Mosquito Control Program visit our web site at: www.gfmosquito.com.