Uintah County is among the first counties in the state to have mosquitoes test positive for West Nile Virus and TriCounty Health is urging the public to take prevention seriously. West Nile was first detected in the Naples area in a test sampling on June 30th and then a second sampling of mosquitoes tested positive in the Ouray area on July 11th. So far there has been no report of West Nile in Duchesne or Daggett County. Mosquito Abatement District Director Kirk Robbins says that not all local mosquitos are the breed that carry West Nile Virus but of the species that do, they only bite from dusk to dawn. “The best thing to do to prevent getting West Nile Virus,” shares Robbins, “is to use a product with DEET and to cover up with long sleeve shirts and pants when out after sunset.” Robbins also urges residents to get rid of standing water on their properties. Things like containers, wading pools, tires, or anything that collects water can produce a breeding ground for mosquitos. If you have a garden pond be sure to stock it with mosquito-eating fish or mosquito dunks. For more safety tips, visit www.tricountyhealth.com.
