West nile virus found in more Virginia mosquitos

Mosquitoes that tested positive for the West Nile virus have been identified in the cities of Richmond and Portsmouth and in Fairfax County

By: Media General News Service | WSLS
Published: July 16, 2008

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Mosquitoes that tested positive for the West Nile virus have been identified in the cities of Richmond and Portsmouth and in Fairfax County.

According to data from the Virginia Department of Health, West Nile-positive mosquitoes were identified in three mosquito pools collected on July 2 in Richmond. West Nile-positive mosquitoes were identified in samples collected July 1 in Portsmouth and in samples collected July 8 in Fairfax County.

West Nile virus can be transmitted to humans from an infected mosquito's bite.

Infection with the virus can cause serious illness.

Prevention includes removing standing water around the home where mosquitoes can breed and wearing insect repellent when outside at times mosquitoes are most active.

For details on West Nile virus, go to: www.vdh.state.va.us or www.cdc.gov.