Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have been found in Marion County.

A surveillance trap in Washington Township found the infected mosquitoes. However no human cases have been reported in the county this year, and no deaths from West Nile were reported in 2013 from Marion County.

Health officials say most people who become infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms. People with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes and kidney disease are at greater risk experiencing symptoms which include headache, body aches, joint pains or rash. Less than one percent of people who are infected will develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis.

The Marion County Public Health Department reminds everyone to observe the four Ds of mosquito control to stay protected from bites:

DUSK – Stay indoors from dusk until dawn.
DRESS – Wear long sleeves and long pants when outside during these times.
DEET – Use insect repellent containing DEET.
DRAINAGE – Remove all standing water outside the home.

Residents should dump standing water in containers of any size and flush out bird baths every week. Check for unused tires, clogged gutters, small recreational pools and poorly operating septic systems.

No deaths from West Nile virus were reported in Marion County in 2013.