The warm season is here and health departments are issuing warnings that as mosquito populations increase numbers, the West Nile virus becomes more likely to manifest. The season normally begins in April and lasts until September, but due to warm weather this year, the first cases of the West Nile virus have been reported as early as March 19.

According to specialists in the field, the areas that favor mosquito population growth are standing waters, including swimming pools left abandoned. One way of counteracting the rapid spread of these mosquitoes is by inserting mosquito-fish populations into the water (which feed on mosquito larva).

This year in particular has been hotter than usual, and the authorities with the Mosquito and Vector Control have been on alert since March. Mosquito-fish are usually used twice a year to lower the number of eggs mosquitoes lay in abandoned bodies of water. Draining them could be a solution, as it would eliminate the ideal environment for mosquitoes.

Health Department officials issued reminders for people to stay away or eliminate any source of water that would benefit mosquitoes. That means they must inspect their properties for standing water and remove them. Moreover, they should try to protect themselves the best they can from mosquito bites by using insect repellent and avoiding late night outdoor activities.

Specialists at the Center for Disease and Control warn that it only takes a few days for eggs to turn into mosquitoes, and this means they are able to reproduce at an alarming rate, increasing the risk for the West Nile virus to spread.

Residents should keep away not only from mosquitoes, but also from infected animals. The infection starts with one bite from an infected mosquito; for some people this could show no symptoms, while for others could manifest through fever, headache, chills, weakness and drowsiness. The most severe cases lead to meningitis or encephalitis, including low levels of consciousness and fatigue.