West Nile Virus Found in Infected Mosquitoes in Mecklenburg County
Mosquitoes are widely known as the deadliest animals in the world. The summertime is prime time for them to breed and run rampant around people’s lawns, biting away and multiplying at an alarming rate. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) said this summer marks the earliest start to the West Nile virus season in the United States, with the highest number of human disease cases reported during this time of year since 2004. Clearly, 2026 is already causing concern about mosquito-borne illnesses.
In early July, federal health officials reported that mosquitoes in over 23 states had tested positive for West Nile Virus, the most in 10 years. That’s why, when the North Carolina State Lab of Public Health identified West Nile virus in a pool of mosquitoes collected by Mecklenburg County Public Health, it raised concern among Charlotte residents and residents across the Carolinas.
What is West Nile Virus?
While no human cases have been reported in the Charlotte metropolitan area from the tested mosquitoes, it is important to remain vigilant and aware of what could be out there. West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the US. Most people stricken with the virus either have no symptoms or a mild, flu-like illness. However, some people can develop a fever, headaches, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and a rash.
In severe cases, the virus can cause damage to the central nervous system. Adults over the age of 60 and people with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems are at the highest risk of complications with this disease.
Each year, about 2,000 people in the US are diagnosed with West Nile, but this number is an underestimate, as most people either do not develop symptoms or misattribute mild symptoms to other causes.
There are no licensed vaccines for use in humans against West Nile virus, and there are no medications that can cure the virus once a person is infected by a mosquito. The best way to limit your exposure to potentially infected mosquitoes is to take several preventive steps during outdoor activities, especially in the mornings and evenings.
How to Prevent Mosquitoes During the Summer
- Use an EPA-registered mosquito repellent (make sure to apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions)
- Empty standing water at least once a week (flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires, bird baths) to eliminate breeding conditions
- Wear long sleeves and pants at dusk and dawn, or stay inside during these hours, as mosquitoes are most active at these times
- Install and repair any window or door screens
- Trim and remove overgrown grass and weeds from yards
Contact Anticimex Carolinas for Mosquito Control You Can Trust
Our professional mosquito exterminator teams at Anticimex Carolinas have all the tools to prevent mosquitoes in your lawn this summer. We have several mosquito treatment technicians who are aware of the unique environmental needs for homes in the Carolinas and are ready to help you; we’re just a call away! Contact us today to take care of your mosquito control needs!
