The 1st West Nile virus of 2021 in Washington state found near Tri-Cities

PASCO – The first West Nile virus in Washington state this year was found in mosquitoes about five miles west of Pasco, according to the Washington State Department of Health.

The virus was detected in mosquitoes collected in Burbank in Walla Walla County.

The West Nile virus season can start as early as July in Washington and can last until early October.

In 2020, a man from Benton County and a man from Yakima County were infected with the virus, compared to five Washington state residents, all in Benton County, the year before.

Additionally, horses in Franklin and Klickitat counties were infected in 2019.

About 80% of people infected with the virus do not get sick, but for a few people it can lead to permanent neurological effects or death.

People 60 years of age and older and those with certain medical conditions are most at risk for serious illness from the virus, which can be passed to people through a mosquito bite.

Symptoms of West Nile virus infection may include fever with headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months.

To protect yourself from mosquito bites, the Ministry of Health recommends:

• Use an insect repellent registered with the Environmental Protection Agency, such as DEET, picardine, or lemon eucalyptus oil.
• Limit time spent outdoors from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active and wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks.
• Eliminate mosquito breeding areas by removing standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires, and birdbaths.
• Install or repair screens on windows and doors.