There’s still plenty of summer left for outdoor activities and that means precautions should be taken to prevent bites from mosquitoes that could carry the West Nile Virus.

Marion County Public Health Nurse Judi Van Hulzen says using insect repellent with DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or picaridin can help prevent mosquitoes from biting. She also advises draining standing water, as they make a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Iowa has had seven confirmed cases of West Nile Virus this year, none of which have been in Marion County.