May 21, 2013
The worst of the West Nile virus season is over as states are reporting fewer cases, thanks to colder weather.
Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the virus has been found in 3,495 people in 39 states this year, and 204 people have died from it. In Alabama, 41 people were infected this year and three died.
Mosquitoes may still be active all year in warmer parts of the country such as the South. But health officials expect infection rates to be smaller than during summer months.
The colder weather allows health officials to begin preparing for next year's mosquito season with more aggressive control efforts.
Among those are creating more efficient ways to disperse insecticide, treating standing water and scouting out areas that may be habitats for mosquitoes during the summer season.
