JACKSON, Wyo. — The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) is warning folks that it’s still mosquito season and these insects can carry diseases like West Nile virus.
“Recent reports confirm the first human infection of West Nile virus this season involving a Goshen County resident,” said Courtney Tillman, epidemiologist with WDH, in a statement. “It is important to remain alert and protect yourself from mosquito bites during the last months of summer while mosquitoes remain active.”
West Nile virus is spread by mosquitos who pick up the organism while feeding on infected birds and then pass it on to humans or other animals. Most cases of West Nile virus infection are asymptomatic, but people with symptoms can experience fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph nodes.
The best way to prevent infection with the virus is to avoid getting bitten by a mosquito, Tillman advised.
Here are some tips to prevent mosquito bites:
- Limit time outdoors at dusk or dawn when these insects are more active.
- Wear long sleeves, pants, socks and shoes while outside to limit the amount of exposed skin.
- Drain any shallow, stagnant water, which is where mosquitos like to breed.
- Use an insect repellant containing DEET, picardin or oil of lemon eucalyptus to prevent bites.
West Nile virus was first found in Wyoming in 2002. 2023 saw 72 reported cases with four deaths among Wyoming residents.
“We fully expect Wyoming’s true case numbers are higher than our numbers reflect because not everyone who is ill gets tested,” Tillman said.
