BROWNSVILLE – Brownsville health officials continue advising the public to protect themselves after a mosquito pool sample tested positive for the West Nile virus.

Brownsville’s Director of Public Health and Wellness Art Rodriguez said the sample was collected near the in the 78520 zip code are.

The city’s downtown area is frequented by plenty of men, women and children every day. CHANNEL 5 NEWS spoke to some parents who say they’re concerned after hearing about the positive test result.

“Can they be safe if they go out like to play?” asked a parent.

“(It’s) something to worry about. Like at my work, there are a lot of mosquitoes. So, I’m worried about that,” said another.

Rodriguez said since the results, the department has sprayed for mosquitoes and set 40 more mosquito traps in the area.

The office will also continue to send more mosquitoes to Austin to be tested.

For now, Rodriguez asks the public to follow the 4 Ds of mosquito protection:

• Drain any standing water
• Stay indoors during dusk and dawn
• Wear mosquito repellant with DEET
• Dress in long-sleeve clothing