WEST MIFFLIN, Pa. -- Allegheny County health officials report that the Asian tiger mosquito -- an aggressive biter that's active in daylight hours -- has been found in West Mifflin.

Channel 4 Action News' Amber Nicotra reported that this is the first time the new mosquito has been found in the county, and it carries a greater risk than others.

"Because it's an aggressive day-biter, flying around biting people during day hours, biting at dawn and dusk, it has potential of spreading West Nile virus and other diseases," said Guillermo Cole, of the Allegheny County Health Department.

The mosquito has a distinctive black-and-white striped body, which is what gives it its name.

Also, unlike other mosquitoes that bite mainly at dusk and dawn, the Asian tiger is out all day.

The news comes as the county Health Department reported that other mosquitoes collected last week from Pittsburgh's West End and North Side have tested positive for West Nile virus.

"We'll be treating known breeding sites. Stormwater catch-basins will be treated to prevent mosquitoes for breeding. That's something we routinely do in certain areas of the county where there's historical West Nile activity," said Cole.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 80 percent of people infected with the virus have no symptoms.

Mild symptoms can occur in up to 20 percent of people infected.

In one in 150 people infected with the virus, serious symptoms of high fever, neck stiffness, numbness, coma, vision loss and paralysis can occur.

To help reduce the mosquito population, remove anything from your property that could hold standing or stagnant water, such as basins and tires.

"(Get) rid of junk, tires, flower pots, buckets. Any water-holding containers should be removed from the premises," said Cole.

Those who spend long periods of time outdoors should also be sure to use insect repellent.

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