(WPDE) — The South Carolina Dept. of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed two cases of West Nile virus, which is spread by mosquitoes, in Myrtle Beach. The city is increasing its regular spraying and eradication efforts as a precaution. This includes more intense aerial spraying to treat adult mosquitoes, treating standing water with larvicide briquettes and assisting the DPH in trapping mosquitoes for inspection. Weekly seasonal spraying began in May and still occurs each week. Here are steps residents can take to help decrease the mosquito population and avoid mosquito bites: Eliminate all standing water (mosquito breeding grounds) in flowerpots, lids, toys, gutters, pet bowls, pool covers, old tires, buckets and more. Keep them emptied. Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon, eucalyptus, or IR 3535 according to label instructions. Wear clothing that reduces the risk of skin exposure. Exposure to mosquitoes is most common during the early morning. Some species bite during the day, especially in wooded or other shaded areas. Make sure that your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep out mosquitoes. The Department of Public Health said most people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms. About one in five infected people become ill within two to 14 days with symptoms including fever, headache, joint pain, muscle pain, and occasionally nausea and vomiting. The risk of serious illness is low. Categories: News, State Tags: west nile virus