West Nile was detected for the first time in the United States two years ago in the New York City area, where several deaths were reported. By the end of last year, according to the CDC, virus activity had been found in a 12-state area from Vermont and New Hampshire, south to North Carolina. Twenty-one humans, 63 horses, 4,304 birds and 14 species of mosquito were discovered to have West Nile.

CDC officials say the best way to prevent transmission of West Nile, or control an epidemic, is to avoid contact with mosquitoes, which is easier said than done. Pasco's [Carol Cummins] says mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn, so she recommends staying inside then. If you do go outside, be sure to wear long pants, long-sleeve shirts and socks, and use repellents that contain Deet.

Residents living in the Pasco Mosquito Control District are fortunate. Mosquito abatement, or spraying, is a recommended tool against West Nile.