Officials are not surprised
Summer brings with it hot temperatures, high humidity, and a host of pests.
One of which is the mosquito and the threat for West Nile Virus.
Just last week, a group of mosquitoes tested positive for the virus in Quincy.
KHQA spoke with Mike Hines, the Chief of Sanitation for the Adams County Health Department for more information.
Traps are set out around the county to collect mosquitoes.
He says he's not surprised about the positive test.
He says West Nile is found in Adams County every year.
But there is something you should keep in mind.
How concerned should we be in Adams County?
"West Nile Virus is with us and not going away. The key component during the summer months is taking precautions of protecting yourself and minimizing the chance of getting bitten by mosquitoes," says Hines.
That means not being outdoors when mosquitoes are active, which is typically right before sunrise and right around sundown.
When you are outdoors at that time, try to wear long sleeves and pants.
Also wear socks and shoes.
Use insect repellant with DEET in it.
Eliminate all standing water in your yard from bird baths to artificial ponds to clogged gutters.
And finally, make sure all windows and doors are tightly closed.
People usually start getting affected by West Nile later in the summer.
Symptoms include fever, severe headaches, body aches, some more serious concerns would be convulsions, tremors, and disorientation.
KHQA also contacted Quincy's Central Services.
The city started spraying for mosquitoes this past Monday.
Crews will spray from 8:00pm to 1:00am for the next few days.
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