State health officials report three new human cases of West Nile virus in Marion, St. Joseph, and Tipton counties. West Nile virus has been identified in 48 counties in Indiana so far in 2006, with a total of four human cases.

"The number of counties reporting positive test results in dead birds and mosquitoes has almost doubled since last week," said James Howell, DVM, veterinary epidemiologist, Indiana State Department of Health. "This high rate of activity means greater risk for people to get infected, and we urge individuals to be vigilant about using insect repellent when outdoors, especially between dusk and dawn."

"It is best if individuals avoid being out during prime mosquito biting times, from dusk to dawn, but when outdoors, individuals should apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to clothes and exposed skin," said Howell.

State health officials encourage 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 mosquito-eating 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 are susceptible to the virus.

For more information regarding the West Nile virus, visit the ISDH Web site at www.in.gov/isdh/healthinfo/west nile/index.htm.