Knoxville, Tenn. (WVLT) - The health department's already found the virus popping up in several places across Knox County. Mayor Tim Burchett came out to one of the trapping sites to see how the county's taking steps to keep you safe.

"I think it's important that we understand what's going on with it and that the public knows we're doing everything possible," said Mayor Burchett.

The CDC said West Nile killed 26 people around the country - and that number could climb.

Ronnie Nease with the Knox County Health Department said, "Our last samples we had 6 positive samples out of our 10 sites."

How can you reduce your risk?

"Any standing water needs to be emptied every five days," said Nease.

Also, use repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves and long pants, limit your outdoor activity at dawn and dusk. While the county is working to prevent and protect - you need to make sure you're doing your part, too.

The virus usually shows up in birds, mosquitoes and horses two weeks before it's strong enough to transfer to humans.