NC confirms 1st human case of West Nile virus in 2026

North Carolina confirmed its first human case of West Nile virus in 2026 in Gaston County, with a positive blood donor identified in Mecklenburg County and the virus detected in mosquitoes across multiple counties. Health officials emphasize prevention measures like mosquito repellent and eliminating standing water, as the virus spreads through infected mosquito bites and poses higher risks for elderly and immunocompromised individuals.