West Nile Virus Confirmed In Mosquitoes Found In Cache County

NEWTON, Utah – Health officials have reported that a sample of mosquitoes in Cache County have tested positive for the West Nile Virus.

According to the Cache Mosquito Abatement District, the positive cases came from a mosquito trap in Newton.

The Bear River Health Department is recommending residents use a mosquito repellent with DEET, permethrin, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus as well as wear long sleeves and pants between dusk and dawn.

Residents in Cache County are also asked to drain any standing water in their yards – such as in old tires, potted plant trays, pet dishes, toys and buckets, and keep roof gutters clear of debris.

Swimming pools should be cleaned often or drained, and weeds and tall grass should be cut short as adult mosquitoes look for those shady places to rest during the hot daylight hours.

Authorities also suggest making sure screen doors and window screens are in good condition.

“The Cache Mosquito Abatement District will continue abatement and surveillance activities,” according to a statement from health officials. “Abatement consists of primarily larvicide, killing or preventing larva from becoming adult mosquitoes. Adulticide, or fogging, occurs only at night when the Culex mosquitoes are active.”