The Bear River Health Department issued an advisory on June 30, 2026, warning residents to remain vigilant against West Nile Virus as officials anticipate more mosquito traps will test positive for the virus in the coming days and weeks.
Regional monitoring and travel risks
In a joint effort with the Cache County and Box Elder Mosquito Abatement districts, the Bear River Health Department is monitoring recent developments related to the virus. The health department noted that because mosquitoes are capable of traveling several miles, all residents in the region should take precautions against bites regardless of their specific location.
Accessing mosquito testing updates
To assist with public transparency, the health department provides direct access to testing updates for both Box Elder and Cache County Mosquito Abatement districts, allowing residents to track which traps have tested positive during the current season.
Recommended personal repellent use
Health officials emphasized several specific preventative measures to minimize the risk of contracting West Nile Virus. For personal protection, the department recommends using EPA-registered mosquito repellents containing active ingredients such as DEET, permethrin, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, while strictly following all package directions for application.
Protective clothing for outdoor activities
When spending time outdoors, the department advises residents to wear protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes, to reduce the amount of exposed skin available to mosquito bites.
Avoiding peak mosquito activity periods
The advisory also highlighted environmental management and behavioral changes to lower exposure. Residents are encouraged to avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity periods, which occur primarily during dawn and dusk.
Eliminating standing water breeding sites
To disrupt mosquito breeding cycles, the health department instructed the public to eliminate standing water by regularly emptying, covering, or treating containers that can collect liquid, such as bird baths, flower pots, buckets, and roof gutters. Additionally, residents should ensure that all doors and windows remain properly screened to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes.
The Bear River Health Department concluded its advisory by urging the public to monitor their health for specific symptoms of West Nile Virus. If individuals develop a high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, or disorientation, they should contact a healthcare provider immediately.
