A second mosquito sample collected a few days back from just east of the Los Angeles (L. A.) River in Atwater Village has been found positive for West Nile Virus.

Another sample collected in June from the same block was also found positive for West Nile virus.

Truc Dever, of the Greater L. A. County Vector Control District, said the positive tests were strong reminders that residents should be pro-active in protecting against the virus.

Health authorities are boosting their efforts to make residents aware that the virus is spreading and can trigger serious infections.

As the West Nile virus spreads through infected mosquitoes, the best way to prevent infection is to avoid mosquito bites by using bug repellant and wearing long sleeves, long pants and a hat when going outside.

Standing water around houses, dump water in wading pools, tires, or old flower pots also help spread mosquitoes spread faster. Therefore getting rid of standing water can help a lot in keeping infections at an arm’s length.

Fever, abdominal pain and diarrhea are some of symptoms of the West Nile virus infection.