CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) has issued a reminder that mosquito season brings the risk of West Nile virus transmission, and this summer warrants heightened awareness.
“Wyoming’s reported human West Nile virus case numbers have been quite low the past several years,” said WDH epidemiologist Courtney Tillman via press release. “But with more positive mosquito pools being reported this summer than we have seen in nearly 10 years and cases popping up in neighbor states, a reminder to avoid these insects may be timely.”
Teton County has yet to report any positive cases this year, but WDH data suggests that upwards of 120 pools of mosquitos in Wyoming have tested positive for the virus in 2023.
According to WDH, the virus first appeared in Wyoming in 2002. Since then, case numbers have varied widely. In 2003, 393 cases were reported in the state, with nine people dying. Other years pass with zero West Nile virus deaths.
West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquitoes when they feed on infected birds and then bite people, animals or other birds. Crows, ravens, jays, raptors, owls and sage grouse are particularly susceptible to the disease.
Most infected people show no symptoms, but some experience fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and/or swollen lymph nodes. Some cases develop into West Nile neuroinvasive disease, which presents such symptoms as severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions and/or paralysis.
WDH recommends keeping in mind “the five D’s” during mosquito season:
- DAWN and
- DUSK – Mosquitos prefer to feed at dawn or dusk, so avoid spending time outside during these times.
- DRESS – Wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt outdoors. Clothing should be light-colored and made of tightly woven materials.
- DRAIN – Mosquitos breed in shallow, stagnant water. Reduce the amount of standing water by draining and/or removing.
- DEET – Use an insect repellent containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide). When using DEET, be sure to read and follow label instructions. Picaridin (KBR 3023) or oil of lemon eucalyptus can also be effective.
Learn more from the WDH about West Nile virus at www.badskeeter.org.
