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West Nile Virus Found In Allen County

Last updated on Wednesday, July 10, 2013

(UNDATED) - Health officials say West Nile virus has been found in mosquito samples in Allen County.

The Fort Wayne Allen County Department of Health says a sample of mosquitoes tested positive this week for the virus. It's the first positive sample of the season for Allen County. No human cases have been reported.

It's the second county this season to report positive samples of West Nile. Last month, the virus was found in mosquito samples in Adams County.

Officials are reminding people to protect themselves from mosquitoes. Residents are urged to use insect repellant containing DEET and wearing long-sleeved clothing when working or playing outdoors. They say its also important to rid your yard of potential mosquito breeding grounds by eliminating any standing water in flower pots and other containers as well as cleaning out clogged gutters and replacing water in birdbaths.

While most cases of West Nile virus in humans are mild with symptoms including headache, fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes and rash, a small percentage can result in more serious problems that could be life-threatening.

More than 30 people have died in Indiana from West Nile Virus since the state's first case in 2002. Eight people died last year, including two in Allen County.

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