Niagara has seen its first instances of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile Virus in 2021.

The mosquitoes that tested positive were found in Lincoln, however Niagara Region Public Health is cautioning all Niagara residents to take precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

Public health said in a press release Tuesday that to date in the Niagara region no human cases have been reported to public health.

The health organization provided the following tips to prevent mosquito bites:

• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks and shoes when outdoors 
• Whenever you use mosquito repellent, apply a product containing DEET or Icaridin, and carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s directions
• Drain any areas of standing or stagnant water on your property on a regular basis, including bird baths, old tires, pails, toys and wheelbarrows
• Make sure all windows and doors in your home have screens that are in good condition