Weber-Morgan Health Department

Residents Urged to Prevent Mosquito Bites

Ogden, UT— The Weber-Morgan Health Department has its first human case of West Nile Virus in a Weber County resident this season. While most people infected with West Nile Virus do not become seriously ill, the case serves as an important reminder that mosquito bites can pose a health risk and that simple prevention measures can significantly reduce the chance of infection.

West Nile Virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds and can then transmit the virus to people and animals. The virus is not spread through casual person-to-person contact.

“One human case is enough to remind us that West Nile Virus is active in our community,” said Amy Carter, a communicable disease nurse with the Weber-Morgan Health Department. “The good news is that there are simple steps everyone can take to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites.”

Carter encourages residents to take the following precautions:

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent when spending time outdoors.
• Wear long sleeves and long pants when mosquitoes are most active, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Eliminate standing water around homes by emptying buckets, flowerpot saucers, bird baths, old tires, and other containers where mosquitoes can breed.
• Keep window and door screens in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.

In some cases, people infected with West Nile Virus experience no symptoms. Others will develop mild symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or a skin rash. In severe cases, the virus can cause serious neurological illnesses, particularly in adults over 60 and people with weakened immune systems.

Residents who develop symptoms after a mosquito bite, particularly high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, muscle weakness, or other concerning symptoms, should contact a healthcare provider promptly.

The Weber-Morgan Health Department continues to work with the Weber Mosquito Abatement District to monitor mosquito activity throughout the season and works with local partners to reduce mosquito populations when necessary.

For more information about West Nile Virus and how to protect yourself, contact the Weber-Morgan Health Department and visit our website WeberMorganHealth.gov.