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Health officials report first West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes in Las Vegas
FOX5 Vegas • • health
Key Points:
- The Southern Nevada Health District has detected the first mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus in Clark County this season, specifically in ZIP codes 89121, 89169, and 89139.
- Routine mosquito surveillance began in March, earlier than usual, due to warmer temperatures and rainfall, with ongoing trapping and testing to monitor virus circulation.
- Health officials urge residents to protect themselves by using insect repellent, eliminating standing water, and wearing protective clothing as part of the "Fight the Bite" campaign.
- In 2024, Clark County reported 26 human West Nile virus cases, with the first human case in 2026 recently confirmed involving a traveler; no cases were reported in 2025.
- The Health District is also monitoring Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which can transmit other viruses like Zika and dengue, and encourages residents to report mosquito activity and green pools.
