The Ohio Department of Health confirmed that there is a mosquito pool in Canton that has tested positive for West Nile Virus. The positive tests results in June came from mosquitoes collected in the Arboretum Park area and is the first one of its kind.

The Canton Health Department currently has a program in place that increases spraying and the treatment of standing water in effected areas.

In anticipation, the city already identified this area and took the necessary precautions three weeks ago to deal with the mosquito population. Subsequent testing since then has shown a dramatic decrease in the number of mosquitos collected.

There have been no positive reports of West Nile infecting anyone in Stark County this year.

Residents are still advised to wear long sleeves, pants and light colors when outside in the evenings or out in wooded areas where mosquito population may be higher. Experts also recommend using mosquito repellant when appropriate.