West Nile virus has officially joined summer in Grant County. Health officials confirmed this week that mosquitoes trapped near Moses Lake tested positive for the virus. The insects were collected last Tuesday and the positive lab result came back Monday, according to the health district. So far this season, Washington has not recorded any human or domestic animal infections.
What The Health District Found
According to a Grant County Health District press release, Grant County Mosquito Control District No. 1 picked up the virus during routine surveillance in the Moses Lake area. Crews collected mosquito samples and sent them in for testing, which is standard practice this time of year.
"Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; they can carry diseases like West Nile virus," GCHD Investigation & Response Manager Amber McCoy said in the release.
So far this season, the district reports that Grant County Mosquito Control District No. 1 has set 787 adult traps and tested 62 mosquito samples.
How Risky Is It?
West Nile virus spreads to people through the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes. Most people who are infected never develop symptoms, according to the Washington State Department of Health.
About one in 150 infected people develop severe neurologic illness, and older adults and people with certain medical conditions face higher risk. Health officials say anyone who develops fever, severe headache, neck stiffness or confusion after mosquito exposure should contact a healthcare provider right away.
Where Else It Has Been Found
Grant County health officials noted that detections have also been reported in neighboring Benton and Yakima counties and cautioned that it is "possible there could be mosquitoes carrying the virus in other areas." The Grant County Health District says it will keep working with local mosquito control crews on targeted larval and adult controls as the season rolls on.
Ann Belchik-Moser, district manager for Grant County Mosquito Control District No. 1, said officials will prioritize treatments and surveillance through the summer.
How To Protect Yourself And Your Animals
Public health officials are repeating the usual summer mantra: dump the water, cover up and spray smart. Residents are urged to eliminate standing water around yards, keep door and window screens in good repair, wear long sleeves at dawn and dusk, and use an EPA-registered repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
The Washington State Department of Health also recommends that horse owners talk with their veterinarian about vaccination, since equines can become seriously ill from West Nile virus.
If symptoms develop after a known mosquito bite, officials advise seeking medical attention and making sure to tell your provider about recent mosquito exposure.
Where To Get Updates
For local updates and maps of trap locations, residents can check the Grant County Mosquito Control District No. 1 website. Ongoing coverage is also available from local outlets such as the Columbia Basin Herald. County officials say they will notify the public if any human or animal infections are confirmed.
