With more standing water than in past years, state health officials are more closely monitoring mosquito populations for the possibility of West Nile virus.

Michelle Fiest, West Nile surveillance coordinator for the State Health Department, said the role of the department is to monitor populations and determine which species are present in any given area.

She said now there are about 100 traps out, two in each county, that are monitored and counted on a weekly basis.

West Nile virus is primarily transmitted through the female Culex tarsalis mosquito. Last year, 37 people contracted West Nile.

If a person contracts the virus, they can only treat symptoms and seek medical care if symptoms worsen.

"Some people may have mild symptoms and not know they have it," infectious disease specialist Dr. Supha Arthurs said.

Symptoms can include a rash, headache and fever to more severe symptoms that cause neurological problems, such as muscle weakness.

The virus can cause West Nile fever or the more severe form of West Nile virus encephalitis.

To prevent West Nile virus, people should limit their potential to be bitten by a mosquito.

This includes using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants, although it can be difficult to wear such clothing in summer, Arthurs said.

Insect repellents should have 30 percent to 40 percent DEET.

- Sara Kincaid and Brian Gehring