The Indiana State Department of Health is warning Hoosiers of an increased risk of West Nile Virus around the state.

As of last week, the state had documented 16 cases of West Nile Virus, with three fatalities statewide. More than 23 percent of mosquito samples tested throughout the state have been positive for the virus, far exceeding the samples taken in 2015 and 2016, the Brown County Health Department reports.

The risk continues until the first hard freeze.

“One of the easiest and most crucial things to do is to remove any stagnant water you have around your property,” including pots, tarps, wading pools, tires, trash containers, bird baths and pet dishes, the health department says. Also, use mosquito repellent that contains DEET; keep grass short and check house screens for holes.

About 20 percent of people develop a mild infection called West Nile Fever. Common symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, back pain; and occasionally a skin rash, swollen lymph glands and eye pain. In less than 1 percent of infected people, the virus causes a serious neurological infection.

The health department advises contacting your doctor if you feel very sick after a mosquito bite.