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Montana’s first human West Nile case of 2026 confirmed in Cascade County
KRTV • • health
Key Points:
- Montana's first human case of West Nile virus in 2026 has been confirmed in Cascade County, marking the county's first known case since 2018 and believed to be locally acquired.
- The case follows recent detection of the virus in mosquitoes near Simms, though health officials say this human case appears isolated and not linked to a larger outbreak.
- West Nile virus is transmitted by infected mosquito bites, with symptoms appearing 2 to 14 days after exposure; about 80% of infected individuals show no symptoms, while fewer than 1% develop severe neurological illness.
- Health officials warn that additional cases may occur before the end of mosquito season and emphasize higher risk for people over 50, especially those with underlying health conditions.
- The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services advises preventive measures including wearing protective clothing, draining standing water, using EPA-registered insect repellents, and avoiding outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours at dawn and dusk.
