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North Dakota reports 1st death of year attributed to West Nile virus
InForum • • health
Key Points:
- North Dakota reported its first West Nile virus-related death of 2026, involving an individual over 60 from the southwest region of the state.
- As of September 9, the state recorded 25 human West Nile virus cases across 14 counties, with 14 hospitalizations; in 2025, there were 86 cases and two deaths.
- The virus peaks in late summer, and those most at risk include people over 60, individuals with underlying health conditions, and those on immune-suppressing medications.
- The Department of Health and Human Services urged residents to take precautions against mosquito bites, such as using EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating stagnant water.
- There is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus, so prevention remains critical until a hard frost ends mosquito activity.
