By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

The Livingston County Public Health Department reminds everyone to take steps to protect themselves from the West Nile virus. West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird.

Although no West Nile has been detected in Livingston County yet this year, there are two ways to avoid being bitten by an infected mosquito, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

One, reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home and two, take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Anyone who finds a dead bird should not touch the bird, but should contact the health department at 815-844-7174 ext. 216.