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So far there's been one confirmed case of the virus out of New York City, but it's enough for the State Health Commissioner to put out a warning.

For hikers they can be some of the most annoying, itch causing insects out there.

"If the kids get attacked we spray it," says a woman hiking with her family.

When Kim Thompson and her family are outdoors, mosquitoes come with the territory.

"We rarely use bug spray only if it's buggy out because it's humid," said Thompson during a hike at Powder Mills Park. "But most of the time no."

According to the Monroe County Health Department, August and September are the peak months for mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus.

"There are so many things out there you can contract," says a local hiker. "But taking the precautions we do, I don't think we will ever eliminate unless we stay indoors all summer, getting bitten by a mosquito."

"Once we get to this point in the season it's a certainty that West Nile is here," said John Ricci, spokesperson for Monroe County Health Department. "We now ask the public to be a little more careful about their exposure to mosquito bites."

Ricci advises people to pile up on repellant.

“Insect repellant when used and directed is very safe and effective to use," said Ricci. "With that said we want to be very careful that young children don't apply it to themselves."

And when practical, Ricci also suggests covering up exposed skin. Both could help keep the bug bites away. He says mosquitoes that transmit West Nile like to breed in water. So watch out for damp places.

"I guess if we were living by water or swampy areas, I'd be more concerned but where I am I'm not," said Thompson.

Ricci says last year there was only one confirmed case of West Nile in Monroe County, and the person caught it elsewhere. But it's still a reason to beware.

Monroe County Health Department