Two human cases of West Nile virus reported in Lancaster County

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Health officials in Lancaster County on Thursday confirmed two human cases of West Nile virus.

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department said mosquito bites are the most common method of transmission to people.

“It’s important to stay vigilant,” Chris Schroeder, the department’s environmental health supervisor, said in a press release. “Keep using your bug spray and taking other basic steps to protect against mosquitoes.”

Most people who get the virus don’t actually feel sick, the health department said.

About 1 in 5 people will have mild symptoms like fever, headache or joint pain.

Less than 1% of those infected will develop a serious illness like encephalitis or meningitis.

The department has been testing mosquitoes since June but has not detected the virus in them.

To prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs, don’t leave standing water near your home.

The water in birdbaths should be changed weekly, the health department said, and your pet bowls should be emptied daily.