AUSTIN, Texas — For the second time this year, West Nile virus has been detected in Travis County.
The latest positive mosquito pool was discovered in the 78744 ZIP code in southeast Austin, less than a month after the first positive pool was found in that same area.
Austin Public Health (APH) officials used the same trap in both of its recent findings. Now, the team is working to combat the issue by adding a type of insecticide called larvicide to surrounding bodies of water.
APH is also providing repellents, flyers and other protective materials to residents in the impacted area.
"While the positive pools have only been seen in 78744, I encourage everyone in Austin and Travis County to follow best practices and protect themselves from mosquitoes through the rest of the year," APH Director Adrienne Sturrup said.
From May through November, mosquitoes become increasingly present across Central Texas. Last year alone, Austin-Travis County saw 45 positive test pools, three likely instances and one confirmed death as a direct result of West Nile.
How to stay safe from mosquito bites
Last month, APH started its "Fight the Bite" campaign, which was originally created by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to raise awareness on mosquito and tick bite prevention.
The initiative highlights four areas of consideration for staying safe: dusk and dawn, dress, DEET and drain.
Typically, mosquitoes with West Nile virus are most likely seen in the early morning and evening hours.
In order to avoid them, it's recommended to wear long-sleeved, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes when spending time outdoors.
Additionally, using DEET-based repellents is another way to deter the disease-spreading insects.
It's also beneficial to drain your yard of any standing water, as bird baths, flowerpots, toys and more can make the perfect hideout for mosquitoes to gather.
Using these tips can help prevent the spread of West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses.
RELATED: What is DEET and is it safe to use?