Las Vegas City Wire

New data from the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) shows a significant increase in West Nile Virus activity among mosquitoes in the Las Vegas area. This surge marks the highest level of activity recorded by the Mosquito Surveillance Program and is occurring earlier than usual.

The SNHD reported that 91 mosquito pools, consisting of 3,081 mosquitoes from 16 ZIP codes, tested positive for West Nile virus. Additionally, two mosquito pools with 46 mosquitoes from two ZIP codes tested positive for St. Louis encephalitis. The last detection of St. Louis encephalitis in Clark County mosquitoes was in 2019, with human cases last reported in 2016.

"Most people infected with the virus will not develop symptoms," according to health officials. However, those who do may experience fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. In severe cases, individuals may develop neuroinvasive diseases such as encephalitis or meningitis.

Minimal West Nile virus activity was noted by SNHD during 2020, 2021, and 2023. In contrast, there were 43 confirmed human cases in 2019 and two cases reported in humans last year.

West Nile virus poses a serious health risk as it is transmitted through bites from infected mosquitoes. About one in five infected individuals will show symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Severe symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea or rash; approximately one in 150 may suffer more serious illnesses.

To mitigate these risks and "Fight the Bite," residents are advised to eliminate standing water around their homes where Aedes aegypti mosquitoes breed. Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear loose-fitting clothes along with long-sleeved shirts and pants to prevent bites.

Residents should report mosquito activity to SNHD's surveillance program at (702) 759-1633 or contact local code enforcement agencies regarding green pools.

Individuals suspecting they have contracted West Nile or any mosquito-borne illness should consult their healthcare provider.