Douglas County Health Department confirms two cases of West Nile Virus

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Douglas County Health Department on Monday confirmed the first two cases of West Nile Virus in the county this season.

According to the health department, one of the cases has been identified as locally acquired.

The virus was detected through the health department’s mosquito surveillance sampling system.

According to the health department, the detection was in Culex mosquitoes — a species commonly linked to transmission in humans.

Since West Nile Virus was first detected in Nebraska, the number of cases in Douglas County has varied significantly.

In 2018, 71 cases were detected in humans, compared to just two in 2020.

Last year, 17 cases were reported in the county.

Most people infected with the virus through mosquito bites do not develop symptoms, and those who do typically experience only mild, flu-like symptoms.

However, fewer than 1 in 150 individuals may develop severe disease.

Adults older than 50 and people with weakened immune systems are at the greatest risk of serious health complications.

“While most infections are mild, we want residents to understand the risks and take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites,” Health Director Lindsay Huse said.

The health department said these findings highlight the importance of taking precautions to prevent mosquito bites.

They remind residents to reduce their risk by:

• Using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants outside, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
• Eliminating standing water around homes where mosquitoes can breed

For more information about mosquito control and prevention, visit the health department’s website and select the environmental health menu.