West Nile Virus Detected in Lancaster, Douglas Counties

The Lancaster County Health Department has recently received a report of the first human case of West Nile virus in the county this season. Mosquitoes have also tested positive for the virus locally. The Douglas County Health Department has reported two cases. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), as of September 2, there have been a total of 577 human cases of West Nile virus reported in 2025, 20 of those in Nebraska. Despite recent cooler weather, Nebraska is still in the height of West Nile virus season and there is potential for more human cases. According to the CDC, “West Nile virus is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. People get infected with the virus during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall (typically June through October). The number of people diagnosed with West Nile typically peaks in late August to early September.”Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms, meaning cases of West Nile is likely underreported. Some people develop mild illness with flu-like symptoms, such as fever with headache or body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people with mild illness recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months. Some people can develop more severe illness, which can affect the central nervous system or illness that results in hospitalization or death. The CDC recommends, “Seek immediate medical attention if you experience high fever, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, confusion, or tremors.” As to prevention, Lancaster County Health recommends, “Keep using your bug spray and taking other basic steps to prevent mosquito bites like limiting time outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active and wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks when outside.”

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