State health officials are urging Hoosiers again this year to take steps to protect themselves from West Nile virus, which is transmitted by mosquitoes.

"We definitely expect to have the West Nile virus back again this year," said James Howell, DVM, veterinary epidemiologist at the Indiana State Department of Health. "There is no human vaccine and no cure for West Nile virus, but it can be prevented."

So far in Indiana this year, one group of mosquitoes has tested positive for West Nile virus in Marion County. There have been no reported positive cases in birds or humans. There were 23 cases of West Nile virus in Indiana in 2005.

"There are many factors that can affect mosquito populations, including weather patterns," said Dr. Howell. "These factors are impossible to predict ahead of time, so we must be prepared."

Health officials recommend that Hoosiers avoid being outdoors during prime mosquito biting times, dusk to dawn, when possible. Individuals are also advised to take the following protective steps when they are outdoors: + Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to clothes and exposed skin; and + long-sleeved shirts and pants.

State health officials are also asking Hoosiers to take steps to rid their properties of potential mosquito breeding grounds by: + Repairing failed septic systems; + Drilling holes in the bottom of recycling containers that are left outdoors; + Keeping grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed; + Disposing of old tires, tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or other unused containers that can hold water; + Cleaning clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up the drains; and + Aerating ornamental pools, or stock them with predatory fish.

Health officials report that although individuals over age 50 are at greatest risk for serious illness and even death from West Nile virus, people of all ages have been infected with the virus and have had severe reactions.