NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes collected in New Orleans, prompting officials to take action.

According to officials with the City of New Orleans, the results come from the New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board. They say West Nile cycles between wild birds and mosquitoes and can be transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito.

While West Nile is reportedly asymptomatic for most people who contract it, it can cause headaches, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash, and in rare cases, severe illness, which is especially possible for the immunocompromised and those over 60 years old.

In response to the detection of West Nile, the NOMTRCB will spray for adult mosquitoes in the following areas

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