Getting bit by mosquitos is irritating at most, and with the summer just ending it is not uncommon to be covered in itchy, red bumps. It is rather uncomforting to think that there is a possibility that one of those mosquito bites might carry the West Nile Virus.

And now, this is a serious fear of the people in the Warren County and Morris County areas. Mosquitoes were collected and tested in Warren County and tested positive for having the West Nile Virus, according to NJ.com.

Not only have mosquitoes been found to have the virus, but some birds were tested positive as well. In addition, a dead cow was reported in the Mansfield area, potentially as a result of the spreading virus. There is currently no explanation for how this has happened, but there has not been this many cases discovered of the West Nile Virus in the United States since 1999, thus much concern has certainly been sparked from the findings. The statistics are stating that the recent weather has been prime for mosquitos, sufficient for what they need to breed. Fortunately, we will not be seeing these mosquitos much longer, as they typically do not last too long during the fall.

In the meantime, it is still advised to take some precautions. DEP has offered a few tips for safety. Try to wear repellent and long sleeves when outside around the evening time. Do not leave doors, windows, or sliders wide open. If necessary, clean clogged roof gutters because they can produce millions of mosquitos annually. Maintain backyard pools as best as possible. Rid any still puddles of water, which may also produce mosquitos. One can set mosquito traps when needed, as well.

Although many infected persons will not show any symptoms, just to be safe, some symptoms of the virus can include: mild or moderate fever, headache, rash, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and swollen lymph nodes. Seek treatment if any of these signs become prevalent.