Mosquitoes found to be carrying West Nile Virus

St. Louis County health officials have discovered multiple cases of West Nile Virus-carrying mosquitoes throughout the county.

No human cases have been reported, although mosquitoes carrying the virus have been found in county-laid mosquito traps, officials said. The county routinely collects mosquito samples for testing in order to determine which areas to spray.

Positive results have been found so far in Frontenac, Lemay, Sunset Hills, Jefferson Barracks County Park, Florissant, Mehlville, St. John, Hanley Hills, Bel-Nor and Pagedale.

“Positive mosquito tests are a reminder that preventative measures are important,” St. Louis County Health Department Director Dolores J. Gunn said. “Even though serious West Nile Virus cases in humans are rare, it is important to minimize our exposure.”

Health officials are urging residents to protect themselves with repellents containing DEET or picaridin and to take care of stagnate water, where mosquitoes breed.

For information regarding mosquito spraying, call (314) 615-4BUG. Mosquito prevention tips can be found at stlouisco.com/doh.