Mosquitoes from two of 15 sampling pools in Grand Junction have tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to the Grand River Mosquito Control District in an Aug. 27 news release.

They are the first confirmed positive pools in Grand Junction this year, and the positive result was reported by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s state lab.

“We are seeing a high number of adult mosquitoes especially in areas near irrigated fields and drainage ditches. The most recent positive samplings came from the Grand Junction area. However, it’s important no matter where you live or recreate, you should not let your guard down,” said Tim Moore, district manager of Grand River Mosquito Control District.

To combat mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus the mosquito district will continue treating standing water with larvicides and will increase fogging operations within specific areas where data indicates above-average numbers of adult mosquitoes.

To date, there have been no human cases of West Nile Virus in Mesa County this year, but Montrose County confirmed its first West Nile Virus-related death on Aug. 26.

Encouraging the community to take proactive steps to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes, Moore said, “It’s important to drain all standing water on your property and use repellents when outdoors.”

Repellents with 10 to 30 percent DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus and IR3535 are the most effective repellents, according to the mosquito district, and it’s also advisable to wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors at dawn and dusk.

For more information, email the Grand River Mosquito Control District at officeadmin@grmcd.org, or call 970-257-0191.