LAS CRUCES, N.M. -- On Tuesday, the state of New Mexico confirmed its first death of the year caused by the West Nile virus. It occurred in Dona Ana County, comma so the big question is if you and your loved ones are protecting yourselves from mosquitoes.

“Itchy, uncomfortable and some people are allergic to it, comma” said John Harris of Mesilla.

He is referring to mosquito bites and because he lives in Mesilla, an area where mosquitoes love to breed, he and his family get their share of them.

“Right now, seeing that we're watering a lot, probably every time we go outside,” said Harris. “Anytime we have these summer rains, you're going to have standing water, anytime you have standing water you're going to have mosquitoes, the problem is we have no way to control them."

And he says the reason there is no way to control them is because the county vector that sprays the area doesn’t come by his area often enough. But Harris will admit he realizes it’s probably because of the county’s current budget. So in the meantime, he does his best to protect his family.

“I’ve got grand-kids you know, and every time they go out of the house I got to be dang sure they are covered with everything and anything,” said Harris.

The Department of Health recommends you take all precautions necessary to protect yourself. And other than putting on repellent, there are some other things you should consider. First, if you have any stagnant water around your house, get rid of it. Also keep in mind that mosquitoes love the hours around dusk and dawn, so if you are going to be out around then make sure you wear the proper clothing, which includes long-sleeve shirts and pants. If your windows and doors aren’t covered by screens then make sure you keep them closed.