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Amid Rainy Summer Ohio Urges Precautions Against Mosquitos
By: Associated Press
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COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) – The Ohio Department of Health says rainy summer weather is contributing to an increase in mosquitoes, and officials urge residents to take precautions to prevent mosquito-related illness.
Wet weather means more standing water, where mosquitoes breed. Health officials say mosquito pools from Franklin, Licking, Richland and Summit counties have tested positive for West Nile virus.
The virus can be transmitted when an infected mosquito bites someone. The state had 11 confirmed human cases of West Nile virus in 2014 but has none reported so far this year.
Health officials say residents can help to protect themselves by using mosquito repellents, repairing damaged window screens to keep out insects, and wearing long, loose, light-colored clothing. They also recommend emptying standing water from birdbaths, pool covers, flower pots and other containers.