Mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile virus in Farmington.
A pool of mosquitoes, collected by the Fulton County Health Department, tested positive for the mosquito-borne illness Thursday.
Fulton County Health Department Administrator Katie Lynn says West Nile virus activity has been present in the state, and they expected to see more activity this year.
Lynn says these findings should serve as a reminder to the public to take precautions to prevent getting West Nile virus.
The Fulton County Health Department advises anyone who comes across a sick or dying cow or blue jay to contact their local health department.
The virus is transmitted through mosquito bites after the mosquito gets the virus from an infected bird. Humans can develop symptoms between 3-14 days after being bitten. Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache and body aches.
Serious illness such as encephalitis, meningitis and death are possible. People over 50 years of age have the highest risk of severe disease.
The best way to prevent getting West Nile virus, or any mosquito-borne illness, is to reduce the amount of mosquitoes around your home and avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are active, especially dusk and dawn.
