Mosquitoes in the West Jordan area have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), joining several other locations across Salt Lake County. Because mosquitoes can travel several miles, everyone in the region, regardless of exact location, should take steps to prevent bites and protect themselves from possible exposure.

While not all mosquitoes carry WNV, there’s no way to tell which ones might be infected. Mosquito season will continue until the first hard freeze, so it’s important to take precautions:

Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites

• Use repellent: Apply an EPA-registered mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow label instructions.
• Cover up: Wear long sleeves and pants after dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Drain standing water: Remove water from tires, plant trays, pet dishes, buckets, toys, and other containers.
• Maintain your yard: Keep roof gutters clear, mow tall grass, trim weeds, and clean/stock ponds with mosquito-eating fish or use mosquito dunks.
• Secure your home: Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens with no holes.

About West Nile Virus
Most people infected with WNV do not feel sick. However, about 1 in 5 develop fever and other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. In rare cases, WNV can cause serious illness affecting the brain and nervous system.

For more information, including updates on mosquito testing, visit the Salt Lake County Health Department’s West Nile Virus page: https://www.saltlakecounty.gov/health/news/west-nile-virus-detected-in-multiple-mosquito-samples-in-salt-lake-county/

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