State environmental officials are warning that West Nile virus has been found in mosquitoes in South Kingstown.
The state Department of Environmental Management says on Tuesday that a sample of mosquitoes collected Sept. 2 in the Great Swamp tested positive for the virus.
No human cases have been reported this year in Rhode Island, but it's the second time a set of mosquitoes has been found with West Nile. The first time was Aug. 4, also in the Great Swamp.
West Nile can cause flu-like symptoms. It is usually not fatal, but can cause serious illness in older people or those with health conditions.
The DEM advises people to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses, including eastern equine encephalitis, which has also been found in the region.
West Nile Found in Mosquitoes in RI
No human cases have been reported this year in Rhode Island, but it's the second time a set of mosquitoes has been found with West Nile
Copyright AP - Associated Press
