A pool of mosquitoes in Hamilton County has tested positive for West Nile virus, local health officials said today.

Ongoing mosquito surveillance conducted by the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department brought in the infected sample in late August, said David Hunter, environmental health program manager with the department.

Local health officials are reminding residents to protect themselves from bug bites and to rid their homes and yards of standing water which could act as a breeding group for mosquitoes.

Mosquito season continues through late October, and typically peaks in August, Mr. Hunter said.

Bonnie Deakins, director of environmental health services at the local health department, said, “Although we have had no reported human cases of West Nile virus in Hamilton County, it’s more important than ever that people take steps to protect themselves.”

For complete details, see tomorrow’s Chattanooga Times Free Press.

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