Mosquitos tested by the Indiana State Department of Health from Brown County have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

It is important to take these steps to prevent a mosquito bite:

• Use mosquito repellent on any bare skin, not on clothing.
• DEET-based repellents (diethyltoluamide) are the most effective and can be used on children as young as 2-months old.
• Do not use repellent on children’s hands, eyes or mouths.
• Use repellent sparingly and re-apply if needed.
• Wash the skin when you come indoors.
• Use a repellent approved by the Environment Protection Agency (EPA).
• Wear light-colored loose clothing with long sleeves and pants

How to prevent mosquitoes on your property:

• Dispose of any tires.
• Clear your gutters.
• Clean pet water regularly.
• Change birdbath water weekly.
• Empty any water in tarps or containers.

All mosquitos need water to breed. Eliminate these areas.

West Nile virus can result in febrile illness with symptoms that include headaches, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea and body rashes. Most people with febrile illness as a result of West Nile virus recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months.

West Nile virus can also cause neurological disease including meningitis or encephalitis, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

More information about West Nile virus can be found on the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/west-nile-virus/symptoms-diagnosis-treatment/index.html.