The St. Joseph County Department of Health has confirmed a pool of mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus in the northeast portion of Clay Township in Granger.

Health officials say most people infected with West Nile virus do not become seriously ill, but the virus can cause severe disease in some cases. Residents are encouraged to take precautions to reduce their risk of mosquito bites.

Officials recommend avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours at dawn and dusk whenever possible. They also advise using EPA-approved insect repellents containing ingredients such as DEET or picaridin, wearing long sleeves and pants in areas where mosquitoes are active, and making sure window and door screens are in good repair.

The health department is also urging residents to eliminate standing water around their homes, where mosquitoes breed. That includes emptying containers that collect rainwater, changing water in bird baths weekly, cleaning gutters, keeping swimming pools properly maintained, and covering rain barrels.

Health officials say reducing mosquito breeding areas is one of the most effective ways to help limit the spread of West Nile virus.