Health department officials issued a warning late Friday that there is increased mosquito-borne disease activity in Sarasota County.
Several sentinel chicken flocks have tested positive for West Nile virus infection, highlighting that the risk of transmission to humans has increased, according to a release from the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County.
Sarasota County Mosquito Control and the health department will continue surveillance and prevention efforts but also asked residents to take basic precautions to limit exposure to mosquito bites.
The health department suggests “drain and cover” tips to drain standing water to help stop mosquitoes from multiplying and cover skin with clothing and repellent.