Neighbors react to first traces of West Nile Virus this season

LIVERPOOL, N.Y. — West Nile Virus has been found in two mosquito pools in Onondaga County, according to the county health department.

The virus turned up in bugs collected at Onondaga Lake Park and another off Belle Isle Road in Geddes.

This is the first time the virus is appearing in the area this year.

With the warmer weather, many neighbors are drawn outdoors.

Virginia Robbins was on a run with friends on Tuesday night when she was told her about the urgent new health warning.

"I'm not that good about remembering repellents, and sunscreens but I might change my mind the next time we come here," Robbins said.

Throughout Onondaga Lake Park many people were out walking, running and riding their bicycles.

This was just hours after the Onondaga Health Department revealed the first trace of West Nile in mosquitoes.

When asked if Robbins was nervous about hearing the reports, "I'm not nervous, but I'm glad to know," Robbins said.

While the virus turned up in two different locations, many people are taking steps to make themselves less attractive to mosquitoes.

"Long sleeves, which I don't have on, spray which I don't have on," Kathy Hellinger said.

"Probably just stay away from the area, we do use some bug sprays but like I said we would just probably stay away from the area," Kristen McMahon said.

The Onondaga Health Department reports mosquito counts are low right now, but its crucial that people use proper protection.

"At this point, it's just a reminder to everybody that it is in the environment and it's important that people should protect themselves from getting mosquito bites," Director of Environmental Health Lisa Letteney said.