Mosquitos in Canyon County Test Positive for West Nile Virus

CALDWELL, Idaho — The West Nile Virus, a neurological disease which can infect humans, horses, and other mammals, has been found in Canyon County. The virus was found in a collected sample of mosquitos on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, west of Parma, Idaho. “This is the second Treasure Valley County reporting positive mosquito pools,” said Jim Lunders, Director of Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District.

Lunders explained that the Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District routinely sets traps at over 100 locations throughout Canyon County to monitor adult mosquito populations for the presence of vector-borne diseases. Of over 1,000 mosquito pools which have been tested this season, Wednesday's pool was the first to test positive. The District has increased control measures in response to the increased public health threat.

Human infection is most often the result of bites from mosquitos carrying the virus. 80% of infected people never develop any symptoms. Symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Anybody displaying these symptoms should contact a medical professional immediately. The Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District offered several suggestions to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus, including wearing repellent containing DEET while outdoors, wearing long-sleeved clothing, vaccinating livestock, and eliminating sources of standing water which can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitos.

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