We seem to hear a lot about West Nile virus these days. Recently, the first human case of the virus in Utah was detected this season. The patient was a Utah County resident who was not hospitalized and has recovered. The individual, under age 40, was a blood donor, and the virus was detected during routine blood screening processes.

The discovery of West Nile virus was significant because it was detected earlier than last year, which means Utahns need be diligent about precautions to avoid mosquito bites. The very young, the elderly and people in frail health are at the greatest risk. To keep mosquitoes at bay, public health officials recommend that Utahns use insect repellent containing DEET, which renders biting insects unable to find their prey for hours. Utahns should also wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, particularly from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Doors and window screens should be secured, and any standing water outdoors should be eliminated, as it serves as a mosquito breeding ground. Trimming weeds and grasses helps, as well.

Many healthy people may be bitten by carrier mosquitoes and not become ill. Some may experience slight flu-like symptoms. The very young, the very old and people with weak immune systems may exhibit symptoms such as a high fever, body aches, a severe headache and stiff neck. In those cases, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Mosquitoes are but one summertime health risk. In truth, Utahns are far more likely to be killed in car accidents or water mishaps than to succumb to West Nile virus.

This is not to marginalize West Nile virus. But it affects relatively few people compared to influenza, which kills tens of thousands of Americans each year and receives scant public attention. The good news about the flu is it can be prevented by inoculation.

The truth is, Americans can do many things to enhance their health. They should eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. They should not smoke. They should exercise, keep current on vaccinations and wear their seat belts. They should wear sunscreen and never drink and drive. They should have regular health, dental and vision checkups.

And yes, they should keep mosquito bites to a minimum using good prevention practices and a healthy dose of common sense.