PA's first West Nile-positive mosquito of 2008 found

Get the bug spray out.

Pennsylvania officials Friday reported the first mosquito sample of 2008 to test positive for the West Nile Virus in Luzerne County.

"Discovering mosquitoes with West Nile Virus is a reminder that we all need to take steps to protect ourselves and limit exposure," Health Secretary Dr. Calvin B. Johnson said in a press release. "Dawn and dusk are peak times for mosquito activity, so if you're outside, remember to use insect repellant containing DEET and wear long sleeves and light-colored clothing when possible."

While most people do not get sick, a small percentage of those bitten will experience a fever, rash, headache, meningitis (inflammation of the tissue surrounding the brain), encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or even death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

West Nile Virus cases occur primarily in late summer or early fall. In previous years, the first positive mosquito tests were reported on June 18, 2003; July 22, 2004; July 7, 2005; and June 28, 2006 and June 12, 2008.

Last year there were 10 human cases of West Nile Virus in Pennsylvania, but no deaths were reported, state officials said. The virus was found in 25 Pennsylvania counties in 2007, according to the state.