Fourth case of West Nile Virus in Malheur County mosquitoes; No confirmed cases in Baker and Union counties

By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Friday, August 2nd, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News

VALE — West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in mosquitoes in Malheur County, marking the fourth such instance in 2024, according to Malheur County Vector Control. The latest sample was collected from a trap site in Jordan Valley.

Health officials urge residents to take precautions against mosquito bites to minimize the risk of infection. WNV is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Those living in or spending significant time outdoors, particularly near irrigated land, waterways, standing water, and used tires, are at increased risk. This includes agricultural workers, such as migrant and seasonal farm workers.

Symptoms of WNV include fever, weakness, and mental confusion. Neuroinvasive diseases related to WNV pose a greater risk to individuals over 50, those with compromised immune systems, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Residents experiencing symptoms should contact their healthcare providers, who can also reach out to the Malheur County Health Department for information on WNV testing.

Emilio DeBess, a public health veterinarian, provided several tips for mosquito protection:

Eliminate standing water sources, such as watering troughs, bird baths, ornamental ponds, buckets, unused wading and swimming pools, and old tires.
Use mosquito repellents containing DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or Picaridin when outdoors at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, and follow the container’s directions.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants in mosquito-infested areas.
Ensure screen doors and windows are in good repair and fit tightly.
In addition to humans, WNV affects wildlife and domestic animals. Horse owners are advised to vaccinate their horses against WNV and seek veterinary examination for horses showing neurological symptoms. West Nile testing is available at Oregon State University.

While Malheur County continues to see WNV activity, Baker and Union counties have not reported any cases this year. Morrow County has confirmed one mosquito pool with the virus. Chris Law from Union County Vector Control noted that the dry, hot weather has led to fewer water sources, which typically results in WNV cases emerging in August. Despite this, Law says vector control expects increased viral activity in birds and mosquitoes this summer. Idaho and Washington have also reported WNV activity.

For more information about West Nile virus, visit the Oregon Health Authority website at public.health.oregon.gov/DiseasesConditions/DiseasesAZ/WestNileVirus or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/westnile.