West Nile virus, an infection which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, hits again. Mosquitoes in the Bridport area of Addison County have tested positive as carriers of West Nile virus. Culex mosquitoes trapped on July 28 were carrying the virus, a local source reported.

“Culex mosquitoes prefer to feed on birds rather than people or other mammals, and although we have not had a positive human case of West Nile virus for the past four years, it is important that we notify Vermonters when we identify the first positive sample,” said Patsy Kelso, an epidemiologist with the Vermont Department of Health, according to the Times Argus.

Four cases of people infected with West Nile virus have been confirmed so far. The most recent human cases are a 38-year-old Carlsbad woman and a 58-year-old Del Mar woman who were hospitalized in mid-July with West Nile symptoms, which are similar with those of meningitis, and a 38-year-old Loveland man.

Prevention is the best means to curb the number of people infected. There is a risk of West Nile virus as long as mosquitoes are active.

Officials encourage residents to take steps to protect themselves from mosquitoes including eliminating standing water that attracts the insects, using bug repellent on exposed skin, limit outdoor activities when mosquitoes are present, repairing or installing window and door screens, try and avoid mosquitoes bites. People older than 50, those with chronic medical affections and children are advised to be more attentive as their immune system is weakened. In rare instances, West Nile can cause severe illness and death.