West Nile virus has now been identified in mosquitoes in Utah County, as it has previously in Box Elder, Davis and Washington counties.

"It is more important than ever for individuals to protect themselves and their families," said Bob Mower, mosquito abatement division director in a statement.

Though cases of West Nile have spiked dramatically across the country, the number of individuals affected in Utah appears to be low. As of the end of August, only three human cases had been reported, only one of which was infected inside the state.

Health officials continue to caution residents to take precautions between dusk and dawn, such as wearing long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks. They urge residents to regularly change or eliminate standing water and use mosquito repellents. —

What is West Nile virus?

O Go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to learn more. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/index.htm