We all know that mosquitoes can, well, bug the heck out of us. If you are outdoors regularly and it is muggy and hot, they are likely buzzing around licking their chops.

But some are more than mere nuisances. Some carry serious diseases. Such as the West Nile Virus. Public health agencies diligently monitor this, utilizing mosquito surveillance traps.

In our area, there have been several recent reports of mosquitos detected with the West Nile Virus. If there are a few around, you can be sure there are many around.

We know of no human infections yet. But the virus has infected humans before and likely will do so again in some location or other — the virus becomes more prevalent in mosquito populations in the later summer months and into early fall.

Of course, the best protection against mosquito-borne diseases, like West Nile Virus, is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Yeah, easier said than done. But here are some tips provided by health experts such as the Mahoning County Public Health:

–Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, shoes, and socks if you are outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

–Light colors are the least attractive to mosquitoes.

–Use insect repellent and follow the label directions.

Tips to eliminate mosquito breeding sites near your home:

–Remove water-holding containers, such as tin cans and unused flowerpots.

–Eliminate standing water.

–Make sure all roof gutters are properly draining and clean.

–Keep children’s wading pools empty and lying on their side when they are not being used.

The three most common mosquito-borne diseases that occur locally are: Lacrosse Encephalitis, St. Louis Encephalitis, and West Nile Virus. Early symptoms of mosquito-borne disease may include nausea, fever, vomiting, and headache. More serious cases include drowsiness, stiff neck, disorientation, tremors, and possibly seizures. If you have any of these symptoms and have a history of recent mosquito bites, contact your physician.

Learn more about mosquito borne diseases at http://www.odh.ohio.gov/mosquitoes