The Monroe County Health Department confirmed Friday that one sample from a pool of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The sample was part of the General Environmental Mosquito Surveillance Program.

Environmental Health Director Michael Kuzemka offered advice for locals on staying safe.

“Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk,” Kuzemka said. “Any size container holding water, even the size of a bottle cap, could be a breeding area for mosquitoes on your property. Keeping yards mowed will help reduce the mosquito population.”

West Nile Virus is not uncommon in Monroe County. However, Kuzemka urged residents to stay vigilant in preventing mosquito bites.

“Take the time to take the steps to prevent mosquito bites,” Kuzemka said.

That, he said, could mean using a mosquito repellent recommended by the Centers for Disease Control such as DEET.

Read more: How to prevent West Nile Virus

One challenge for Monroe County residents comes from recent flooding.

Kuzemka noted that mosquitoes lay eggs in water, requiring that people take measures to limit those spaces.

“Get rid of standing water on your property,” Kuzemka said. “Check your outdoor spaces for breeding areas, such as bird baths.”

Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, but people need to be aware no matter the time of day.

“Mosquitoes still bite throughout the day,” Kuzemka said. “So if you're on a lunch break and you want to catch some sun outside, just be cautious and aware that hey, mosquitoes are still biting during that time.”

Most people infected with West Nile experience mild symptoms or none, the Monroe County Health Department said. About one in every 150 who get infected experience severe symptoms. Those can include encephalitis or meningitis.

People who experience high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, muscle weakness or paralysis, nausea or vomiting, sore joints or confusion should see a doctor immediately.

More information can be found on the Indiana Department of Health webpage.