Another case of West Nile virus has been confirmed in western Iowa. The Iowa Department of Public Health says the most recent case involves a woman from Mills County.

The report comes on the heels of four other cases of West Nile involving people from Fremont, Pottawattamie, and Harrison Counties. Several other possible cases are being investigated in western Iowa.

Even though the weather has cooled and decreased the mosquito population, the Health Department says there’s still a significant risk of getting West Nile until the first hard frost.

Ann Pavkov with the Iowa Department of Public Health says the months of standing water from Missouri River flooding could be creating an ideal breeding place for mosquitoes.

A press release from the Health Department provides more tips on preventing the West Nile virus:

Use insect repellant whenever outdoors, especially during peak biting times from dusk to dawn. Use repellent with DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always read the repellent label and consult with a health care provider if you have questions when using these types of products for children.

Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes, and socks whenever possible outdoors.

Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites by removing sources of standing water in outdoor areas whenever possible. For example turning over or removing items where water can collect, such as ceramic pots, toys, buckets, tires, wading pools, and tarps covering firewood and boats.