OLYMPIA - The first sign of West Nile virus near the Benton-
Yakima county line serves as a reminder for people living in and
visiting Eastern Washington to avoid mosquito bites. Mosquito
samples collected by the Benton County Mosquito Control District
near Byron Ponds/Grandview sewage lagoon in the small portion of
Yakima County the district serves tested positive for the virus,
according to a state Department of Health news release. That led
the district to begin spraying Tuesday. "Many local residents
know the threat of West Nile virus is here, but we're concerned
that visitors from the west side may not be as aware," said
Benton-Franklin Health Officer Dr. Larry Jecha. "Eastern
Washington in general, and the south central region in
particular, have been the most active for the virus in recent
years, and we expect big crowds for the Independence Day
weekend. It's vital that people take precautions to avoid
mosquito bites." State health officials agree it's important
people protect themselves. "Wear sleeves