Utah County mosquito pool tests positive for West Nile virus

A Utah County Health Department staff member collects samples. The department is monitoring for West Nile virus. (Photo courtesy of Utah County Health Department)

A mosquito pool in the Lake Shore-North Palmyra area tested positive for West Nile virus, the first in Utah County this season, the county’s health department confirmed on Tuesday. 

The positive mosquito pool was collected during a routine mosquito surveillance effort, the department said in a release. The area was immediately treated after the test result. 

“Since the initial positive test, the same trap location has been tested twice more, with no additional positive results,” the department said. “Utah County Mosquito Abatement teams continue to monitor the area closely while maintaining regular control efforts countywide.”

While most people who become infected with the virus — most commonly spread by a mosquito bite — don’t develop any symptoms, some may experience headaches, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rashes, according to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services. Fewer than 1% of infected patients develop serious neurologic illnesses, like meningitis. 

Those who think they are infected with the virus should contact their health care providers, the department said.

The Utah County Health Department advises residents to help reduce mosquito breeding and prevent bites by eliminating standing water at home, including in buckets, flower pots, birdbaths, tarps, tires and clogged gutters. Additionally, residents are encouraged to use insect repellent while outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk, and wear long sleeves and pants when possible.

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