Utah County has confirmed its first human case of West Nile virus this season, according to a report published August 31. The patient developed neuroinvasive disease, a rare and serious form of the illness that can affect the nervous system and may require hospitalization.
The Utah County Health Department stated it will not release further details regarding the patient to protect their privacy. Aislynn Tolman-Hill of the department noted that the case serves as an important reminder that the virus is present in the community and can cause serious illness.
Health officials advised residents to reduce their risk by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and removing standing water around their homes. Mosquitoes carrying the virus are most active around dawn and dusk. Recommended repellents include those containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
The Health Department and Utah County Mosquito Abatement are currently reviewing mosquito-surveillance information and conducting an additional assessment in the area associated with the case. Decisions regarding mosquito-control measures depend on surveillance results, mosquito activity, weather conditions, and established intervention thresholds.
Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms. Approximately one in five people experience fever or symptoms such as headaches, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. Less than 1% of infected individuals develop neuroinvasive disease, which can include encephalitis, meningitis, or acute flaccid myelitis. Warning signs include high fever, neck stiffness, confusion, seizures, tremors, muscle weakness, or a severe headache.
Residents can report heavy mosquito activity or standing water that cannot be eliminated to Utah County Mosquito Abatement to help crews locate and treat hidden breeding areas. Information regarding mosquito trap counts, spray schedules, and an online service-request form is available at https://health.utahcounty.gov/mosquito-abatement.
