Photo: Alvesgaspar (CC 3.0)

No one likes getting eaten up by the skeeters. But the District Department of Health is warning D.C. residents that an itchy red bump might not be the worst thing that could happen after they take a bite out of you — West Nile Virus has been identified in mosquito samples in the District.

The virus, which causes flu-like symptoms in some adults and serious medical problems in about one out of every 150 people, usually pops up around this time in the region. The Department of Health passes along some tips to help ward off the mosquitoes that carry the virus:

>> Dispose of cans, bottles and open containers properly. Store items for recycling in covered containers.
>> Remove discarded tires. Drill drainage holes in tires used on playground equipment.
>> Clean roof gutters and downspouts regularly. Eliminate standing water from flat roofs.
>> Turn over plastic wading pools, wheelbarrows, and canoes when not in use.
>> Cover waste containers with tight-fitting lids; never allow lids or cans to accumulate water.
>> Flush bird baths and potted plant trays twice each week.
>> Adjust tarps over grills, firewood piles, boats or swimming pools to eliminate small pockets of water from standing several days.
>> Re-grade low areas where water stands; clean debris in ditches to eliminate standing water in low spots.
>> Maintain swimming pools, clean and chlorinate them as needed, aerate garden ponds and treat with “mosquito dunks” found at hardware stores.
>> Fix dripping water faucets outside and eliminate puddles from air conditioners.
>> Store pet food and water bowls inside when not in use.

You can also check out the Center for Disease Control’s tips on repellant and thorough FAQ on the virus for more information.