Heat brings Ind. greater risk of West Nile virus

INDIANAPOLIS -- Indiana health officials say August's hot weather is bringing more mosquito activity and with it a heightened risk of getting the West Nile virus.

The state Department of Health says mosquitoes in 14 counties have tested positive for the West Nile virus within the last month, although no human cases have been reported.

The agency urges people to avoid being outside during prime mosquito time from dusk to dawn, to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants while outside.

More than 20 Indiana residents have died of West Nile virus since the state's first human case was reported in 2002.

Mosquitoes have recently tested positive for the West Nile virus in Adams, Allen, Clinton, Delaware, Grant, Hamilton, Hendricks, Howard, Kosciusko, Lake, Madison, Marion, Montgomery and Wabash counties.