COLUIMBUS (WCMH) — Two areas of Columbus will be sprayed for mosquitoes today, prompted by positive tests for West Nile virus in Clintonville and Northland mosquito pools

The City of Columbus confirmed the first two cases of West Nile in mosquito traps on Friday.

Columbus Public Health officials tell NBC4 two pools of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile in the Northland and Clintonville neighborhoods.

“As soon as we are notified that there is a positive pool of mosquitoes, then we deploy our team to go spray,” said Jose Rodriquez, Director of Public Affairs and Communications at Columbus Public Health.

Areas to be sprayed today:

  • Clintonville: The areas between West North Broadway to the south, Henderson Road to the north, High Street to the east and the OIentangy River to the south.
  • Northland: The area between Karl Road to the west, Cleveland Avenue to the east, East Dublin Granville Road to the north, and Sandalwood Place, Tamarack Circle, Northtowne Blvd., and Maplewood Drive to the south.

The health department says residents should not be alarmed.

The city saw about 20,000 infected mosquitoes last year. So far, this summer they are only seeing half that. But this is still a perfect reminder on why you need to take steps to protect yourself and your family from mosquito exposure.

To avoid possible infection from mosquito bites:

Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active; if you must be outdoors, be sure to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks. Light colors are least attractive to mosquitoes. Use insect repellent and follow the label directions.To eliminate mosquito breeding sites near your home:

Remove all discarded tires and other water-holding containers, such as tin cans and unused flower pots, from your property. Eliminate standing water from your property. Make sure all roof gutters are clean and properly draining. Clean and chlorinate pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty when not in use and drain water from pool covers. Change water in bird baths weekly.