Wyoming Health Officials Urge Precaution as Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus

The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) is reminding residents to take preventative measures against mosquito bites as mosquito pools in parts of the state have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) this year, Casper Star-Tribune reports.

According to the department, two out of ten mosquito pools in Natrona County tested positive for the virus, signaling the early presence of WNV-carrying mosquitoes this season. Although no human cases have been reported in 2025, Wyoming recorded one death and one case of neuroinvasive disease associated with the virus in 2024.

Neuroinvasive disease is a rare but serious complication of WNV, which can lead to symptoms such as severe headaches, fever, tremors, convulsions, and swollen lymph nodes. However, health officials note that many infected individuals do not experience symptoms.

“As the weather warms up and we spend more time outdoors, we need to remember to take steps to prevent mosquito bites and potential WNV infection,” said Courtney Tillman, an epidemiologist with WDH.

To reduce the risk of mosquito exposure, the health department recommends the following precautions:

• Drain standing water around homes to prevent mosquito breeding.

• Use properly fitted window screens to keep mosquitoes out.

• Maintain lawns by mowing regularly and removing weeds.

• Apply insect repellent when spending time outside.

• Wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

• Stay indoors during peak mosquito hours when possible.

West Nile virus is most commonly spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. For more information and updates, residents can visit the state’s mosquito prevention site at www.badskeeter.org.