DECATUR- Bzzzzzzz. Those buzzing, bloodsucking mosquitoes are more than just annoying: They could be carrying a potentially deadly disease.

State public health officials offered some tips on how to stay safe from one potential summer malady, West Nile virus.

Mosquitoes collected in Jackson County in late June were among the first in Southern Illinois to test positive for the virus, according to Illinois Department of Public Health, and in late May, mosquitoes positive for West Nile turned up in Tazewell County in Central Illinois.

Human infection with West Nile is caused by the bites of mosquitoes that have bitten infected birds, which commonly include crows, blue jays and robins.

In 2007, the Department of Public Health reported 25 mosquito collections positive for the virus in Macon County. The first cases were seen in late July and lasted until the middle of October. In 2007, Macon County reported one human case of the disease, according to the department's Web site. Last year, four deaths were reported statewide.

According to the department, only about 20 percent of bites from infected mosquitoes result in any sickness from West Nile. These can range from mild flulike symptoms to encephalitis and death.

In a June 24 news release, State Public Health Director Dr. Damon T. Arnold offered tips to prevent contact with mosquitoes, thus reducing the risk of infection. He urged Illinois residents to be vigilant and proactive when it comes to preventing mosquito bites.

Avoid spending time outdoors between dusk and dawn, peak times of mosquito activity. And, when outside, cover exposed skin with clothing, and wear shoes and socks. The department recommends repellants with DEET, IR 3535, picaridin or the plant-based oil of lemon eucalyptus, but parents should ask a doctor before using these products on babies.

You should avoid opening doors and windows, especially in the evenings, and seal up any holes or cracks through which mosquitoes could enter the home.

Arnold encouraged homeowners to get rid of any standing water around their residences or water in containers such as children's pools, ponds and buckets.

For more information about West Nile virus, tips on mosquito control and the latest West Nile surveillance data, visit the Public Health Web site at www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/wnv.htm.

Annie Getsinger can be reached at 421-6968 or agetsinger@herald-review.com.