LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) – Nebraska has seen its first human cases of West Nile virus this year, and state health officials are urging residents to take steps to avoid the illness.
West Nile is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird.
The state Department of Health and Human Services said Thursday that four pools of mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile.
They’re in Red Willow, Douglas, Lincoln and Cherry counties.
HHS offers these tips to avoid mosquito bites:
- Use a mosquito repellent containing DEET or other active ingredient.
- Wear a long-sleeved shirt, pants and socks.
- Avoid going out at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are mostcactive.
- Eliminate standing water, a prime location for mosquitoes to breed.
