A sample of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile Virus in Prince William County earlier this month, according to officials.

The mosquitoes were collected at the Belmont Pump Station in Woodbridge July 9 and represent the first reported activity of the virus in the county in 2013.

According to the Prince William Health District (PWHD), an intensive treatment was performed on the affected area to kill all adult mosquito's and breeding larvae.

“Since most of the mosquito species that residents need to control breed in standing water within a few hundred feet of their homes, control measures around the home are the most effective way to prevent mosquito breeding and to reduce the risk from bites, “ PWHD Director Dr. Alison Ansher said.

The PWHD recommends the following tips to reduce exposure to mosquitoes: