NASHVILLE, Tenn. - State health officials say large mosquito populations could lead to an increase in West Nile virus cases.
Record floods in early May have contributed to more mosquitoes than normal. State health officials said in a news release that the best way for Tennesseans to protect themselves from West Nile virus is to prevent mosquito bites.
Tennessee had nine human cases of West Nile virus last year. It was half the number confirmed in 2008, but officials said Tennesseans should not have false security.
Human cases of West Nile virus usually occur beginning in July or August.