Elkhart County Health Department issues warning after mosquitoes test positive for West Nile Virus

ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. -- The Elkhart County Health Department says adult mosquitoes in the southern portion of the county have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The department was notified of the issue by the Indiana State Department of Health.

Health officials say it is possible the virus is present in other areas of the county and with an increase in rainfall and higher temperatures as of late, precautions should be taken including:

• Avoid peak times of increased mosquito activity from dusk to dawn, early morning and late afternoon.
• Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent containing picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, DEET, IR3535 or para-menthane-diol to clothes and exposed skin.
• Wear clothes covering areas of exposed skin especially in wooded areas.
• Repair or install screens on doors and windows to keep mosquitoes at bay.

Residents should also heed the following tips to eliminate possible breeding grounds:

• Clean clogged roof gutters.
• Keep shrubbery trimmed and grass cut short.
• Repair failed septic systems.
• Discard ceramic pots, old tires or containers that hold water.
• Frequently replace water in pet bowls.
• Flush birdbaths and ornamental fountains regularly, aerate ornamental pools or stock with predatory fish.

Contact the Elkhart County Health Department at 574-971-4600 with any questions or concerns.