West Nile virus on the rise in Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services reported the highest number of mosquitoes with West Nile virus since 2018.

Samples collected across the state indicate that cases in mosquito pools haven’t been this high for the past five years.

“That activity in the mosquitoes actually correlates really well with human cases that we can expect to see, so it’s a really good indicator of potential risk,” said Jeff Hamik, epidemiologist at HHS.

Experts advise taking preventative measures such as covering up as much skin as possible while outside, using insect repellant and dumping any still water inside or outside their homes.

About 80% of people who become infected do not develop any symptoms, with only around 20% developing mild symptoms and less than 1% developing severe symptoms.

Severe illness can occur in any age range. But people over the age of 50 are at a greater risk of developing severe symptoms.

For more information about West Nile Virus and risk reduction please visit HHS’s website.