Officials with the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) say the number of mosquito samples that have tested positive for West Nile Virus has more than quadrupled in the last two week. According to data released Aug. 20, 11 mosquitoes were found to be carrying West Nile. However, that number has climbed to 54 as of Friday, Sept. 3. Human infections remain low but did increase from two cases to four over that same two-week period. Mosquito bites are the primary vector for West Nile Virus transmission to humans, so reducing your risk of exposure is the best way to avoid issues. Health officials recommend Iowans use insect repellent when possible, avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when insects are most active, wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks to cover skin and remove standing water around the home to reduce mosquito breeding environments.
