Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus in Utah State Correctional Facility and Weber County
SALT LAKE CITY – Mosquitoes at the Utah State Correctional Facility have tested positive for the West Nile virus earlier this week, raising concerns over the potential spread of the virus among both staff and inmates. Officials also confirmed that several mosquito populations in Weber County have tested positive for the virus.
According to the Weber Mosquito Abatement District, three populations of mosquitoes in Roy, Ogden, and North Ogden have been found to carry the West Nile virus. To combat the spread of the virus, the district will increase its spraying efforts in these areas.
This is not the first detection of the West Nile virus in the region. Earlier this month, authorities identified the virus in a separate mosquito population in Farr West. The Utah Department of Corrections emphasized that protecting both staff and incarcerated individuals from mosquito bites is their top priority.
“The Utah Department of Corrections is committed to education and prevention, providing free and accessible repellent to minimize the risk of mosquito bites,” said Brian Redd, executive director of the department.
To minimize the risk of mosquito bites, the department has encouraged staff and inmates to wear long sleeve shirts, long pants, and close-toed shoes. Medical staff will closely monitor everyone at the prison for any symptoms of the virus.
Although there is no immediate threat from this early detection, officials remain vigilant due to the prison’s close proximity to mosquito habitats and potentially infected mosquitoes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 455 human cases of West Nile virus in the United States this year, with only one case reported in Utah.
In addition to Weber County, the virus has been detected in mosquitoes in Davis and Utah counties as well.
West Nile virus is primarily transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. However, not all mosquitoes carry the virus. Severe symptoms of the virus include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, disorientation, and confusion.
To reduce mosquito exposure, the CDC provides several tips, including using EPA-registered insect repellents with active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, and 2-undecanone. It is also recommended to dress in clothing that covers arms and legs, use mosquito netting for strollers and baby carriers, and use screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes outdoors.
Additionally, it is crucial to eliminate any standing water sources that could serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes, such as tires, buckets, and flowerpots, to prevent further mosquito infestations.
As the mosquito season continues, health officials in Utah urge the public to take necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites and reduce the risk of West Nile virus transmission.