First West Nile virus case of the year reported; take precautions during and after Labor Day weekend

For immediate release: August 30, 2019                                 (19-093)

Contact: Liz Coleman, Strategic Communications Office, 360-481-2016

OLYMPIA – A human case of West Nile virus (WNV) has been reported by Benton-Franklin Health District – the first case of WNV in Washington this year. Health officials advise people to take action to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes as WNV is currently circulating in several counties in Washington. In addition to the human case, who was likely exposed to mosquito bites in Franklin or Walla Walla County, WNV has been detected this summer in mosquitos from Benton, Grant, and Yakima counties. In past years, WNV has been detected across the state. In Washington, WNV season starts as early as July and can last until early October.

The majority of people infected with West Nile virus do not get sick. About one in five will develop a fever or other symptoms that go away without medical treatment. For a small number of people, West Nile disease can lead to permanent neurologic effects or death. People over age 60 and those with certain medical conditions are most at risk of severe disease.

Mosquitos are currently active in Washington, including WNV vector mosquitos. A few simple actions can protect against mosquito bites.

  • Use an effective, EPA-registered insect repellent.

  • Cover up - wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors.

  • Avoid mosquito prime time. Many mosquitoes bite in the evening between dusk and dawn. Take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing during evening and morning hours.

Mosquito-proof your home by installing or repairing screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitos outside. Reduce mosquito-breeding areas around your home by emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires, and birdbaths on a regular basis.

For over a decade, Washington State’s Departments of Health and Agriculture, local public health agencies, and mosquito control districts have partnered to monitor mosquitoes, birds, horses, and people to learn more about the spread of West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.

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