Health Officials Warn Nashville Residents About West Nile Virus
Health authorities in Nashville are advising residents to take precautions against mosquito bites after the West Nile virus was discovered in local mosquitoes for the first time this year.
The Metro Public Health Department (MPHD) confirmed that the virus was detected in a group of mosquitoes collected near Cass Street in North Nashville. This marks the city’s first finding of the West Nile virus this season, and it’s also the earliest positive result recorded.
Last year, health officials saw increased West Nile virus activity, with one human case reported.
Dr. Sanmi Areola, the health director at MPHD, stated, “Everyone can help reduce the number of mosquitoes in our neighborhoods, making outdoor spaces safer and more enjoyable.”
In light of the recent detection, MPHD is educating residents in the affected area while encouraging the community to take steps to shield themselves and their families from mosquito bites this summer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness in the U.S. While most people infected don’t show symptoms, about 20% may experience fever, headaches, or body aches. Severe cases can affect the nervous system, especially in older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
Public health teams routinely trap and test mosquitoes to keep track of West Nile virus activity over the summer. A positive test does not mean residents will get sick but serves as a warning that the virus is present in the area.
In response to the recent findings, MPHD is distributing educational materials in the impacted neighborhood, increasing mosquito trapping efforts, and monitoring areas with standing water. They also plan to apply larvicide where necessary to help manage mosquito populations but do not spray for adult mosquitoes.
Nashville residents can also request free backyard inspections from the department’s Pest Management team to locate potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
To help reduce mosquito breeding around homes, public health officials recommend emptying standing water from bird baths, flower pots, buckets, and toys. Keeping grass and shrubs well-trimmed can also help lessen mosquito activity.
To avoid bites, health officials suggest using insect repellents approved by the EPA that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. It’s also wise to wear long sleeves and pants during peak mosquito times, usually around dusk and dawn, and ensure that window and door screens are intact.
Officials emphasize that reducing mosquito breeding near homes can lower the risk of West Nile virus and other mosquito-related illnesses in the community.
