Human case of West Nile Virus confirmed in Douglas County

The first mosquito sampling in Douglas County to test positive for the West Nile Virus this year has been confirmed by the Douglas County Health Department.

A press release stated the sampling, from the area of 11th and Grace streets, was taken June 11. Additionally, a blood donor in Douglas County has tested positive for the West Nile Virus and early trapping has shown higher than usual populations of Culex mosquitoes for this time of year. There are several species of Culex mosquitoes that carry West Nile Virus. Often the first positive mosquito tests are not found until August.

“This report is concerning in that it may indicate an early start to the West Nile season,” Douglas County Health Director Lindsay Huse said in the press release. “Heavy rains, predicted flooding, and warm weather are likely to increase the mosquito population in coming days and weeks, which could lead to more WNV in the community. It should serve as a reminder for everyone to follow our simple recommendations for protecting yourself from mosquito bites.”

To reduce your chances of mosquito bites, officials recommend:

● Following label instructions, apply a mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

● Minimize your activities outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

● Wear loose, long-sleeved shirts, plus pants, shoes and socks when you’re outdoors.

To prevent mosquitoes from breeding near you:

● Remove standing water whenever possible.

● Empty buckets and pet dishes daily and bird baths on a weekly basis.

● Clear weeds and anything else that may block water from draining properly.

● Follow proper swimming pool maintenance procedures.

● Keep water moving in ponds or fountains.

DCHD works to control the mosquito population by applying mosquito larvicide in breeding sites or stagnant waterways. Due to the recent heavy rains and Missouri River flooding, plans are being developed to expand that work to new areas that may provide potential breeding areas.

Most people who are infected by a mosquito have no symptoms or only mild flu-like symptoms. Fewer than one in 150 people who are bitten by an infected mosquito will have a serious illness, the press release stated. People more than 50 years old and those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to the disease and are more likely to suffer serious consequences.

Since the West Nile virus arrived in Nebraska, the number of cases in Douglas County has ranged from a record of 71 human cases in 2018 to a low of two cases in 2020. There were 11 cases last year.