LOGAN — Two mosquito samples in Logan have tested positive for West Nile virus, prompting local officials to continue targeted abatement and surveillance efforts.
Rex Davis with the Logan City Mosquito Abatement department was notified of the positive pools by the Utah State Public Health Laboratory. The infected mosquitoes were collected from traps located near the Logan City Landfill and near 1700 North and 1200 West. Officials stated they will continue to update the public if the virus is detected in additional areas.
West Nile virus is transmitted by Culex mosquitoes. While many people who contract the virus exhibit no symptoms, others may experience fever, headaches, body aches, joint pains, vomiting or a rash. Severe cases can affect the central nervous system.
To combat the spread, crews are utilizing both larvicide to prevent mosquito larvae from maturing and adulticide fogging to eliminate adult insects. Fogging operations take place exclusively at dusk and during the night when Culex mosquitoes are most active.
Officials urge residents to protect themselves by wearing long sleeves and pants between dusk and dawn and applying repellents containing DEET, permethrin, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Property owners should also drain standing water from pet dishes, flowerpot trays and old tires, clear debris from roof gutters, keep grass cut short, and repair damaged window screens.