The first human case of West Nile Virus this year has turned up in Monroe County. Monroe County Health Department officials say the risk for getting the disease is now at its peak and will continue until the first heavy frost kills of the mosquitos.
Health Director Dr. Michael Mendoza says the best protection is to minimize outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when mosquitos are most active; wear long sleeves and pants, even with the current heat wave; drain any standing water on your property; and use an insect repellent containing DEET outdoors.
Fewer than one percent of mosquitos carry the virus, and only about 20 percent of people who get the virus get sick, mostly with mild flu-like symptoms. But for people with chronic health conditions, it can be a serious risk.