Georgia has confirmed eight human cases of West Nile virus this year, including one death, and state health officials expect that number to grow before mosquito season ends.

Mosquitoes carrying the virus have been found in several Georgia counties, including Chatham, Fulton and DeKalb, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. Mosquito season usually lasts through October, so Columbus residents should keep protecting themselves for the next several weeks.

Who's most at risk

Most people infected with West Nile have no symptoms. Others get a fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or a rash, usually 2 to 6 days after a bite.

Older adults and people with weakened immune systems or other health conditions face the greatest risk of serious illness, including infections of the brain and nervous system.

Protect yourself outdoors

• Use insect repellent registered with the EPA, with DEET (20% to 30%), picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Cover up with light-colored, loose-fitting long sleeves, pants and socks.
• Don't count on the time of day. Mosquitoes bite both day and night.

That matters at Friday night football games, Uptown events and evenings on the RiverWalk this fall.

Get rid of mosquitoes at home

The most effective mosquito control starts in your own yard:

• After every rain, or at least once a week, tip out standing water in flowerpots, planters, toys, wading pools, buckets and tires.
• Check window and door screens for holes.

Report a mosquito problem in Columbus

To report standing water or a mosquito problem on public property in Columbus, contact the city's 311 Citizen Service Center by calling 311 or 706-653-4000.

If you have questions about symptoms, talk with your doctor or call the Columbus Health Department at 833-337-1749. More information is available at cdc.gov/west-nile-virus.