Franklin County Public Health will spray three areas starting this evening, June 20, where mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile virus.

Mosquito spraying will begin at 9 p.m. and will take place tonight, June 20, in Clinton Township and Urbancrest and on Thursday, June 21, in Reynoldsburg.

According to a press release from Franklin County Public Health, the “positive” pools of mosquitoes in these areas are the first found in mosquitoes this season in Franklin County.

The county conducts weekly checks to identify West Nile virus and will continue to apply larvicide in catch basins and areas with standing water.

Residents should take steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquitoes: Wear insect repellant containing DEET (follow package directions) and limit outdoor activity at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

The last human case of West Nile virus in Franklin County was reported in 2006.

More information is available online at www.myfcph.org.

Residents can report problem areas on the website or by calling (614) 525-2483. This is a voice mail system and calls will be returned within 24 hours. Columbus residents should call 311.