Human West Nile virus case reported in north-central Nebraska health district

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services on Monday confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in Nebraska for the 2026 season. The department said the human case was reported within the North Central District Health Department jurisdiction.

The human case in north-central Nebraska follows an announcement made by the Lincoln-Lancaster Health Department last week that its labs had confirmed mosquitoes within the City of Lincoln had tested positive for West Nile.

"[West Nile virus] is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States, and Nebraska has historically experienced higher levels of WNV activity than many other states," a news release from DHHS said.

The virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito that acquired the virus after feeding on an infected bird. DHHS said the virus is not spread directly from sick or dead birds to humans, and people cannot get the virus from sick or dead birds.

"Since there is no vaccine or specific medicine to treat West Nile virus, it is important for Nebraskans to take preventive steps to reduce their risk of mosquito-borne illness and enjoy their summer safely,” Dr. Sydney Stein, DHHS State Epidemiologist, said in the news release.

DHHS said most people with West Nile virus experience no symptoms or only mild flu-like illness. Fewer than 1% of infected people develop severe disease. Older Nebraskans and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for developing serious illnesses or complications.

People can reduce their risk:

• Use a repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, lemon eucalyptus oil, or IR3535.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes, and socks when outside.
• Take extra precautions when going outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Drain standing water around your home. Empty and change the water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels, and potted trays at least once a week, if not more often.
• Irrigate lawns and gardens carefully to prevent water from standing for several days.
• Make sure window and door screens are “bug tight” and repair or replace torn screens.