Which NC Mosquitoes Carry West Nile Virus? What You Need to Know After the First Case

North Carolina has verified its first human case of West Nile virus On Wednesday, July 30, 2025, health authorities reported.

The incident was identified among a local inhabitant of Durham County , as stated in a press release from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS). Further details were not disclosed to safeguard the individual's confidentiality.

West Nile virus-infected mosquitoes have also been newly discovered in Pitt County During regular oversight, the department stated.

This is the season when West Nile virus activity usually rises West Nile virus levels tend to go up There is often a rise in West Nile virus cases West Nile virus transmission generally escalates The occurrence of West Nile virus commonly peaks Cases of West Nile virus typically surge West Nile virus prevalence tends to increase Activity related to West Nile virus usually grows Infections from West Nile virus often become more common West Nile virus spread normally intensifies Across North Carolina," stated Emily Herring, a public health veterinarian with the NCDHHS, in the statement. "This latest incident underscores the significance of avoiding mosquito bites to lower the chances of infection.

The West Nile virus is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that may lead to fever, head pain, and muscle discomforts However, many individuals who are infected do not exhibit any signs, as reported by the CDC Centers for Disease Control and Prevention In uncommon instances, it may result in severe nervous system disorders such as meningitis or encephalitis.

Individuals ought to implement measures to avoid mosquito stings and other insect bites whenever they plan to spend time outdoors. lower their chance of contracting West Nile virus or any diseases transmitted by vectors, which are illnesses transmitted by mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks said James Salter, director of environmental health for Durham County, as previously reported by The News & Observer.

Read more at: https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/counties/durham-county/article311524758.html#storylink=cpy

Below is essential information regarding the virus and the mosquitoes that transmit it.

Cases of West Nile virus in the US

By Tuesday, July 29, it had been 98 instances of West Nile virus 98 confirmed cases of the West Nile virus A total of 98 cases linked to West Nile virus There have been 98 reported infections from West Nile virus Ninety-eight individuals diagnosed with West Nile virus Cases related to West Nile virus amounting to 98 The number of West Nile virus cases stands at 98 West Nile virus has affected 98 people Total recorded cases of West Nile virus reach 98 Nine eight cases involving the West Nile virus reported across 23 states in the U.S., as per the CDC .

Reports of cases have emerged from nearby states such as South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and Georgia.

What methods are used to address West Nile virus infections?

No antiviral therapy is available for West Nile virus, although minor symptoms can be handled at home using over-the-counter medications , according to Cleveland Clinic .

But Patients experiencing severe conditions accompanied by nervous system-related symptoms might need to be admitted to a hospital. where medical professionals offer supportive care including intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, anti-seizure medications, and interventions to decrease cerebral edema, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Many milder instances resolve within several weeks, although tiredness and muscular weakness might persist for a longer period. In more serious situations affecting the nervous system, lasting complications such as memory difficulties or coordination challenges could arise, and approximately 1 out of every 10 instances may result in death .

What types of mosquitoes in North Carolina transmit the West Nile virus?

The Asian tiger mosquito One of the most prevalent types of mosquitoes in the state serves as a carrier for the West Nile virus, according to Chris Hayes, a postdoctoral researcher at North Carolina State University specializing in education. pest control sector regarding animal behavior insect management field on creature patterns urban wildlife control related to pest tendencies agricultural pest control concerning animal activities professional pest eradication and animal habit analysis commercial pest control services focusing on rodent behaviors integrated pest management considering wildlife activity environmental pest control examining insect habits modern approaches to managing pests through understanding their behavior strategies for controlling unwanted animals based on their behavioral traits , previously mentioned in The Charlotte Observer .

Asian tiger mosquitoes are regarded as " container breeders meaning they flourish in areas such as buckets, tires, toys or any other item that can collect and hold water , Hayes said.

To assist in controlling mosquito numbers near your house, The entomology division of NC State Extension The insect science team at NC State Extension The pest management section within NC State Extension The bug research group from NC State Extension The arthropod studies unit under NC State Extension The insect biology department at NC State Extension The extension service's expertise in insects at NC State The field of entomology offered through NC State Extension The study of insects conducted by NC State Extension The insect-related programs provided by NC State Extension recommends the "tip and toss" method to eliminate standing water.

"The concept involves disrupting, and ideally eliminating, the numerous breeding grounds that frequently surround our residences and are highly probable outcomes of our actions—or lack thereof," states a blog post.

As reported by N.C. State, stagnant water is commonly located in bird baths, containers such as cans, plastic covers, swimming pools, downspouts, and collection barrels for rainwater.

Other mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus include the northern house mosquito and eastern saltmarsh mosquito , according to Triangle Pest Control .

Is it true that certain individuals attract mosquitoes more than others?

No It's a widespread belief that mosquitoes tend to target specific individuals over others, as Hayes had previously mentioned to the Observer.

Some people might smell differently to them," said Hayes. "But ultimately, it comes down to an allergic response ."

As per Hayes, the irritation and puffiness that occur after a mosquito bite result from an allergic response to substances found in the insect's spit—and certain individuals have a higher level of sensitivity to these components.

What are the signs of being bitten by a mosquito?

Kids tend to experience more intense reactions from mosquito bites compared to adults, according to the Mayo Clinic.

According to Mayo Clinic, mosquito bite symptoms include:

• An itchy, inflamed bump which appears a few minutes following a sting
• A painful spot It resembles a hive and develops within 24 hours following a sting.
• Small blisters

Serious allergic responses may result in extensive, swollen regions, hives resembling rashes, and puffiness near the eyes, as stated by the Mayo Clinic.

How to safeguard against mosquito bites

To prevent mosquito bites, you may use insect repellents Containing picaridin, a man-made substance created to keep bugs away, Hayes said earlier to the Observer.

The CDC recommends employing insect repellents that are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and include at least one of the following effective components:

• DEET
• Picaridin
• IR3535
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Para-menthol-diol
• 2-undecanone

Hayes added that natural options For example, creams containing essential oils like lemongrass or citronella might provide partial protection as well.

Ways to prevent mosquitoes from approaching your house Methods for keeping mosquitoes out of your living space Strategies to deter mosquitoes around your residence Tips for reducing mosquito presence near your home Effective approaches to avoid mosquitoes at your property Techniques to minimize mosquito activity around your dwelling Solutions to keep mosquitoes from entering your area Practical steps to repel mosquitoes from your premises Advice on preventing mosquitoes from settling near your home Simple ways to stop mosquitoes from coming close to your house

The best method to safeguard yourself and your residence against mosquitoes is to engage a pest management specialist consult with an exterminator employ a bug control expert bring in a wildlife removal technician seek assistance from a pest eradication service contact a certified pest controller hire a termite and insect specialist get help from a professional pest elimination company reach out to a licensed pest control provider enlist the services of a pest management contractor , as they have access to mosquito control methods not available to the general population, Hayes previously said to the Observer.

While over-the-counter insecticides may be effective, he recommended that home owners exercise care when using them.

Exercise great caution when handling insecticides on your own," Hayes stated. "The average person may not be fully aware of the necessary precautions for safe usage.

He also advised using safety equipment when applying the product and making sure that kids and animals avoid the treated zones.

"If you come into contact with pesticides, ensure you either clean the item or dispose of it," he stated.

Kristen Johnson of The News & Observer participated in this report. Kristen Johnson from The News & Observer assisted with this report. This report was also supported by Kristen Johnson of The News & Observer. Krishna Johnson of The News & Observer helped contribute to this report. The News & Observer's Kristen Johnson played a role in this report.

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