Cases of West Nile virus are on the rise here in Central Texas.
As of earlier Thursday, Bell and McLennan Counties have seen a total of 11 new confirmed cases.
So far this year, five people have died in the area and 21 throughout Texas.
Right now both counties are just taking it day by day.
They said if these number continue to grow, then it will be up to the city to decide whether or not aerial spraying will be done.
Whether you go for a morning bike ride or enjoy a hot summer night, mosquitoes are usually lurking somewhere close.
"The researchers are thinking that the weather is the big factor," said McLennan County Health District Program Administrator David Litke.
Litke has been dealing with mosquito activity for years.
He said mild winters and above-average rainfall is behind the surge of mosquitoes.
"And then combined with hot temperatures is an ideal combination for mosquito and virus," said Litke.
And with just one bite you could start to get flu like symptoms that could spell trouble.
"The problem with the West Nile virus is there's no vaccines or immunizations for it," said Litke.
Doctors can run tests to confirm if you do have the virus, but preventing it is up to you.
"A lot of people think, well I'm not at a high risk category so it's not going to affect me, but we don't want anyone to get sick," said McLennan County Health District Representative Kelly Craine.
The virus usually hits hardest for the elderly and young children.
But with football season starting, anyone who's outside is at risk.
"Now that school is starting and we're going to have a lot of football games and out door activities, remember to bring your mosquito repellant along with you," said Craine.
August is peak season for mosquitoes, and with even more rain chances in store, being prepared is the best way to keep you and your family safe.
"To make it real simple is, if you're not bit by the mosquito, then you're in the clear," said Litke.
