The Utah County Health Department (UCHD) has confirmed the first case of West Nile virus (WNV) in Utah County. According to a August 31 statement, the case is neuroinvasive, which is the more serious form of the illness.
The presence of West Nile virus in the area is evident due to a high number of positive mosquito pools and confirmed human cases. In response, Utah County Mosquito Abatement is conducting additional assessments and applying targeted treatments in areas where cases have been identified.
While most people infected with WNV do not develop symptoms, approximately 1 in 5 people may experience fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, swollen lymph nodes, or a skin rash. In rare instances, the virus can become neuroinvasive, which can lead to severe illnesses such as paralysis, encephalitis, meningitis, or seizures. Symptoms of these severe cases may include muscle weakness, disorientation, neck stiffness, or high fever.
To reduce risk, the UCHD recommends using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Residents are advised to wear long sleeves and pants during peak mosquito activity at dawn and dusk, keep window and door screens in good repair, and drain standing water from containers like bird baths, flowerpots, or clogged gutters. Older individuals or those with underlying health conditions are at a higher risk for severe illness.
