SPOKANE — For the first time since 2023, a sample of mosquitoes caught north of Moses Lake last week tested positive for West Nile virus.

Benton and Yakima County mosquito monitors have also detected infected insects this year, according to the Grant County Health District. There has not been record of a human case of West Nile in Grant County since 2015.

Because of their presence in the state, Mosquito Control District manager Ann Belchik-Moser said she isn’t surprised to find the virus in Grant County.

“I think we’re fortunate enough to have our own equipment and staff to really target areas where we know there is virus and try to knock it down as best we can,” Belchik-Moser said. “And, hopefully, winter comes soon.”

Following the positive test, Assistant Manager Carina LeFave said t

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