Adult mosquitoes in the St. Louis area have tested positive for West Nile virus.

The Jefferson County Health Department announced the findings Monday. It was the first time this year mosquitoes have been collected in the county that is just south of St. Louis County.

Health officials recommend using insect repellents with DEET or Picaridin. They also recommend removing standing water in tires, cans, buckets and other containers and keeping gutters free of debris.

The Center for Disease Control offers suggestion to prevent contraction of West Nile Virus.

When you can, they advise you wear long-sleeved shirts and pants outdoors. For infants, covering their carriers when you are outdoors with infants. The also suggest make sure screens are in good shape in your home so that mosquitoes cannot get indoors.

And at least twice a week, cleaning out birdbaths, buckets, trashcans and anything that can collect water.

Only 18 cases have been reported so far this year of humans contracting West Nile Virus as of July 10th, according to the CDC.