The Jackson County Health Department recently was notified by state health officials that a positive pool of mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus has been found in Jackson County.

This is the second pool found in the state. West Nile virus is commonly found throughout the state each summer, so it is expected to see activity in more counties as the season progresses.

“As soon as we start detecting West Nile virus in mosquitoes, we know people are at greater risk for infection,” said Jennifer Brown, veterinary epidemiologist for the Indiana Department of Health. “The good news is there are simple, effective steps Hoosiers can take to protect themselves from being bitten by a mosquito.”

The Jackson County Health Department recommends residents take the following protective steps:

-Avoid being outdoors during prime mosquito biting times, dusk to dawn, when possible

-Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin or oil of lemon eucalyptus to clothes and exposed skin

-Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of the home

-When possible, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outside.

West Nile virus usually causes a mild form of illness, which can include fever, headache, body aches, swollen lymph glands or a rash.

A small number of individuals, however, can develop a more severe form of the disease with encephalitis or meningitis and other neurological syndromes, including flaccid muscle paralysis. Some individuals may die from the infection.

Health officials say although individuals over age 50 are at greatest risk for serious illness and even death from West Nile virus, people of all ages have been infected with the virus and have had severe disease.

Since 2002, when Indiana had its first human case of West Nile virus, more than 20 Hoosiers have died from the illness.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes that have first bitten an infected bird. A person bitten by an infected mosquito may show symptoms three to 15 days after the bite.

The Jackson County Health Department also urges residents to take steps to rid their properties of potential mosquito breeding grounds:

-Discard old tires, tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or other containers that can hold water

-Repair failed septic systems

-Drill holes in the bottom of recycling or trash containers left outdoors

-Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed

-Clean clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up the drains

-Frequently replace the water in pet/livestock bowls

-Flush ornamental fountains and birdbaths periodically

-Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with predatory fish

For information, visit jacksoncountyhealth.org or statehealth.in.gov