West Nile virus
Coverage of West Nile virus in the Nexus archive.
- Louisiana confirms first West Nile case as U.S. sees worst early-season surge in decades
Louisiana confirmed its first 2026 West Nile virus case in Ouachita Parish, with infected mosquitoes detected in 13 parishes. The U.S. is experiencing its worst early-season West Nile surge in two decades, with 48 national cases reported by June 30, including 38 severe cases.
- West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes reported in NYC: NYSDOH
West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes have been reported in New York City and Long Island, according to the New York State Department of Health. The virus is more common during the summer.
- DOH identifies West Nile virus mosquitos downstate
The New York State Department of Health confirmed West Nile virus in mosquito pools across Nassau, Rockland, and Suffolk counties and advised residents to follow safety protocols to prevent potential outbreaks.
- West Nile virus detected in Wisconsin mosquitoes: What you need to know
West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes and a wild bird in Wisconsin, marking the first confirmed cases of 2026. Health officials are urging the public to take precautions.
- LA County Officials Urge Mosquito Precautions After First Human West Nile Case
Los Angeles County officials confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus this year, urging residents to take mosquito precautions. An Antelope Valley resident was hospitalized with West Nile virus encephalitis after symptoms began in late June.
- Very ill L.A. County person found to have West Nile amid explosion of virus activity nationwide
Los Angeles County reported its first case of West Nile virus in 2026, involving a very ill individual. The case occurs amid a nationwide surge in virus activity.
- Very ill L.A. County person found to have West Nile amid explosion of virus activity nationwide
Los Angeles County officials reported the county's first case of West Nile virus in 2026, involving a very ill person. The incident occurs amid a nationwide surge in virus activity.
- L.A. County confirms 1st human case of West Nile virus this year
Los Angeles County confirmed its first human case of West Nile virus for the 2026 season. The Antelope Valley resident is hospitalized with West Nile virus encephalitis after symptoms began in June.
- West Nile virus confirmed in Berkshire County mosquitos
West Nile virus has been confirmed in mosquitos in Berkshire County, specifically in Pittsfield, as reported by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
- 2 mosquito traps in San Marcos test positive for West Nile Virus
Two mosquito trap samples collected in San Marcos on Tuesday tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to a release from Hays County.
- Inside the lab at the heart of Louisiana’s mosquito-borne disease prevention network
The Louisiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory analyzes thousands of mosquito samples to track and prevent the spread of diseases like West Nile virus. The lab processes up to 25,000 vials annually, testing for pathogens in mosquitoes collected from 30 parishes, using DNA analysis to inform public health responses.
- West Nile is spreading faster than it has in 20 years. Here's how to keep yourself safe
West Nile virus is spreading faster than in two decades, with early-season activity detected in Orange and Los Angeles counties. Local authorities are advising residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
- West Nile is spreading faster than it has in 20 years. Here's how to keep yourself safe
West Nile virus is spreading faster than in two decades, with increased activity observed in Orange and Los Angeles counties. Authorities are urging residents to avoid mosquito bites to protect themselves.
- CDC Urges People to Prevent Mosquito Bites as West Nile Virus Season Starts Strong
The CDC is urging people to prevent mosquito bites as West Nile Virus season begins its earliest and worst start in over two decades, with at least 48 confirmed cases. Health officials recommend using bug spray and mosquito-control efforts to mitigate the risk.
- West Nile cases surge in 2026 as CDC issues holiday advisory
The CDC issued a July 4 holiday advisory warning of a two-decade high in West Nile virus cases, with 48 cases reported through June 2026, including 38 severe neuroinvasive cases across 23 states. The agency recommends using EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding outdoor activity during dusk and dawn to prevent mosquito bites.
- Crow tests positive for West Nile virus in Contra Costa County
A young American crow from El Cerrito tested positive for West Nile virus in Contra Costa County in 2026, marking the first bird case this year. No human cases have been reported, but mosquitoes from Martinez and another location tested positive for the virus.
- NYC to spray against West Nile Virus: What to know
New York City will spray non-residential marshes and wetlands in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island between Tuesday and Thursday to combat West Nile Virus, as announced by the New York City Department of Health.
- Inland Empire city latest in SoCal to detect West Nile virus in mosquito samples
San Bernardino in Southern California has detected West Nile virus in mosquito samples, joining a growing list of cities in the region. The infected mosquitoes were collected in San Bernardino, marking the first West Nile virus-positive mosquito sample detected this year in the area served by the county’s Environmental department.
- West Nile virus detected in Nashville mosquitoes for first time in 2026
West Nile virus was detected in mosquitoes near Cass Street in North Nashville in 2026, prompting targeted public health measures. The detection follows elevated 2025 levels that resulted in one human case. Officials are distributing educational materials, applying larvicide, and urging residents to eliminate standing water and take preventive measures against mosquito bites.
- West Nile virus cases hit 22-year spike. Here's where activity is highest in US
The U.S. is experiencing a 22-year spike in West Nile virus cases, with activity at some of the highest levels in years. The article highlights where the virus is most active within the country.
- West Nile virus cases hit 22-year spike. Here's where activity is highest in US
West Nile virus cases in the U.S. are experiencing a 22-year spike, with the highest activity levels observed recently.
- How to avoid mosquito bites this summer
Mosquitoes in Michigan are active from late spring to early fall and can carry diseases like West Nile virus and Jamestown Canyon virus. While no human cases have been confirmed in Michigan this year, both viruses have been detected in mosquito populations in Saginaw, Midland, and Kent counties. Dr. Brandon Karmo from Henry Ford Health discusses prevention methods.
- West Nile virus detected in mosquitoes from these 8 Orange County cities
West Nile virus was confirmed in mosquitoes collected from eight Orange County cities, including Costa Mesa, Fullerton, Garden Grove, and Westminster this week. Last week, infected samples were reported in Buena Park, Huntington Beach, Santa Ana, and Seal Beach. Inspectors will be monitoring the areas.
- CDC urges people to prevent mosquito bites as West Nile virus season hits a strong, early start
The CDC reports an early and severe West Nile virus season with 48 confirmed cases by June 30, 38 of which are severe, marking the worst start in over two decades. Arizona has been hardest hit, with 32 cases and four deaths, prompting officials to urge mosquito bite prevention measures like DEET use and eliminating standing water.
- CDC urges people to prevent mosquito bites as West Nile virus season hits a strong, early start
The CDC warns of an early and severe West Nile virus season, with 48 confirmed cases (38 severe) reported by June 30—far exceeding the 10-year average for the period. Arizona has the most cases, including four deaths, prompting officials to urge mosquito bite prevention measures like DEET-based repellent and eliminating standing water.
- West Nile virus found in North Nashville; health officials urge mosquito precautions
West Nile virus has been detected in North Nashville through a mosquito trap, prompting health officials to recommend mosquito precautions. The Metro Public Health Department confirmed the virus's presence in the area.
- West Nile Virus detected in Nashville. Here’s what health officials say
West Nile Virus has been detected in a mosquito pool in North Nashville, marking the first detection of 2026. Health officials urge residents to reduce mosquito populations and take preventive measures against bites.
- West Nile Virus detected in Davidson County for the first time in 2026
West Nile Virus has been detected in Davidson County for the first time in 2026, according to Metro health officials. The detection was confirmed following the collection of a mosquito pool.
- West Nile virus in Travis County: Mosquito tests positive
Health officials in Travis County have detected a positive mosquito pool for West Nile virus in the 78733 zip code. The report confirms the presence of the virus in the area.
- First West Nile virus mosquito pool tests positive in Travis County
Austin Public Health confirmed the first mosquito pool of the year to test positive for West Nile virus in western Travis County. The detection marks an early indication of the virus's presence in the region.
- West Nile Virus Detected in San Gabriel Valley Mosquitoes
West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes were detected in the San Gabriel Valley, with an infected sample collected in Alhambra. The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District will continue monitoring and implementing control measures in public areas.
- Long Beach reports first West Nile case
The city of Long Beach has reported California's first human case of West Nile virus this summer, according to health officials. This marks the initial instance of the virus in the state during the current season.
- Long Beach confirms first human case of West Nile in California
Long Beach confirmed California's first human case of West Nile virus this year. The patient was hospitalized with neuroinvasive illness but is recovering at home. The virus is transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, with no vaccine or treatment available, and health officials recommend precautions like insect repellent and removing standing water.
- Plant Daddy: Why you may see fewer fireflies this year, a warning about standing water around your garden and more
The article discusses the FDA's approval of the first new sunscreen in 20 years and warns about standing water in gardens creating mosquito breeding grounds that could carry West Nile virus. It also mentions a potential decrease in firefly sightings as a gardening tip.
- West Nile detected in Hennepin, Ramsey and Dakota County mosquitoes
West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitoes across Hennepin, Ramsey, and Dakota counties, with one location each in Hennepin and Dakota and two in Ramsey testing positive. The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District notes this is consistent with historical patterns, though last year saw over 120 human cases in Minnesota, including 50 in the Twin Cities. Residents are advised to use insect repellent, cover skin, and remove standing water.
- Officials confirm Larimer County's first human case of West Nile virus in 2026
Larimer County health officials have confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus in 2026. This marks the initial reported instance of the disease in the county for the year.
- Williamson County mosquito trap tests positive for West Nile Virus
Williamson County's first mosquitoes of the season tested positive for West Nile virus. A mosquito trap in the county confirmed the presence of the virus.
- Williamson County mosquito trap positive for West Nile virus
The first mosquitoes in Williamson County have tested positive for West Nile virus from a trap near Geneva Park in Georgetown, as reported by the county health district.
- Bug season has arrived. How are Philly and Jersey fighting ticks and mosquito-borne diseases?
Philadelphia and South Jersey are combating mosquito and tick populations through chemical treatments and proactive measures, targeting disease-carrying insects like West Nile virus and Lyme disease vectors. Climate change and habitat disruption are cited as factors increasing vector-borne disease risks, prompting research and public health efforts to control outbreaks.
- West Nile carrying mosquitoes found in Wilmette
West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes were found in Wilmette, Illinois, on June 17, marking the latest in a series of cases across the Chicago area this summer. Officials report a low risk to residents with no human cases yet, but emphasize removing standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.