West Nile Virus Found in Mosquitoes Across Three Minnesota Counties

Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have been found in three counties in Minnesota. Health officials warn residents to be careful because this virus can make people very ill.

The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District (MMCD) reported these findings from samples taken on June 17. They found mosquitoes in Hennepin County, Ramsey County, and Dakota County. This is the first time mosquitoes have tested positive for the virus this year.

Last year, Minnesota saw over 120 human cases of the virus. This included 50 cases in the Twin Cities, making it a record year. The MMCD states that Culex tarsalis mosquitoes are the main carriers of the West Nile virus.

To prevent the spread, the MMCD is checking areas where mosquitoes might breed. They are looking for mosquito larvae in mapped wetlands in the Twin Cities. The MMCD plans to increase monitoring and consider more treatments in places with a high risk of mosquitoes.

Residents are advised to use insect repellent, cover their skin, and empty any standing water. This will help reduce the chances of getting bitten and lower the risk of catching the virus.

How much do you know?

How many counties in Minnesota have reported mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus?

1

2

3

4

What is the main type of mosquito that carries the West Nile virus according to the MMCD?

Aedes aegypti

Culex tarsalis

Anopheles gambiae

Culex pipiens

When did the MMCD report the findings of the mosquitoes?

June 1

June 10

June 17

June 25

How many human cases of the West Nile virus were recorded last year in Minnesota?

50

75

100

120

Which of the following counties is NOT mentioned as having reported the virus?

Hennepin County

Dakota County

Ramsey County

Olmsted County

What does the MMCD plan to increase in places with a high risk of mosquitoes?

Public awareness

Monitoring

Insect repellent

Standing water removal

The West Nile virus was first reported in Minnesota this year.

True False

Residents are advised to cover their skin to reduce mosquito bites.

True False

The MMCD checks areas for mosquito larvae in mapped wetlands.

True False

Last year, Minnesota saw fewer than 50 human cases of the West Nile virus.

True False

Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have been found in four counties in Minnesota.

True False

Insect repellent is recommended to help lower the risk of catching the virus.

True False

Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus have been found in three counties in Minnesota: Hennepin County, Ramsey County, and .

Last year, Minnesota saw over human cases of the West Nile virus.

The MMCD states that Culex tarsalis mosquitoes are the main carriers of the virus.

Residents are advised to use insect repellent and their skin to prevent mosquito bites.

To prevent the spread, the MMCD is checking areas where mosquitoes might .

The MMCD plans to increase monitoring and consider more treatments in places with a risk of mosquitoes.

This question is required