West Nile cases surge in 2026 as CDC issues holiday advisory
Federal health officials say 48 cases have been reported this year, with 38 severe neuroinvasive infections and activity in 23 states.
- Ahead of the Independence Day holiday, the CDC urged Americans to protect against mosquito bites as the nation experiences its earliest start to West Nile virus season in over two decades.
- Federal health officials confirmed at least 48 cases across 23 states through June 30, with 38 involving neuroinvasive disease, while Arizona's Maricopa County remains the hardest-hit area with 29 cases and four deaths.
- Adults over 60 and those with underlying medical conditions face the highest risk of severe illness; Dr. Erin Staples, CDC medical epidemiologist, said "These findings serve as an important reminder that mosquito season is well underway."
- To limit exposure, officials recommend using EPA-registered bug repellents and eliminating standing water; county official Melissa Kretschmer noted "even an overturned bottle cap can hold enough water for mosquitoes to breed."
- Dr. Daniel Pastula of the University of Colorado-Anschutz noted there are no specific treatments for West Nile, as experts call for increased vaccine development funding and support for local mosquito control programs.
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ussanews.comGoing out for Fourth of July festivities? Bring the bug spray, says the CDC
Whether you’re going outside to grill, see fireworks, or cheer at a parade this Fourth of July, remember to watch out for mosquitoes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention this week said it’s seeing the earliest start to the West Nile virus season in the United States — along with the highest number of human cases since 2004. As of Tuesday, the last time the CDC’s data was updated, the agency reported 48 total cases. Usually, an averag…
CDC Urges People to Prevent Mosquito Bites as West Nile Virus Season Starts Strong
(MedPage Today) -- Health officials are encouraging people to use bug spray and mosquito-control efforts as West Nile virus season is off to its earliest and worst start in over two decades. The CDC this week said it had confirmed at least 48...
Early, intense West Nile season may signal a severe year for the mosquito-borne illness, CDC says
West Nile activity has been reported in 23 states this year, the highest number this early in a decade, the CDC said. The “activity” metric includes positive tests in mosquitoes and other animals.
West Nile cases surge in 2026 as CDC issues holiday advisory
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a warning ahead of the July 4 holiday weekend urging Americans to protect themselves against mosquito bites.Federal health officials say West Nile virus cases are at a two-decade high to start 2026, with 48 cases reported through the end of June. The CDC said 38 of those cases involved severe neuroinvasive disease.West Nile virus cases have been reported in 23 states so far this year.RELATED …
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