The Utah Health Department has confirmed that there have been two human cases of West Nile Virus in the TriCounty Health District. Duchesne County and Uintah County have each had one human case while three Wasatch Front counties have experienced multiples. As of September 9th, Duchesne County has had 5 mosquito samples test positive for the virus while 25 mosquito samples have tested positive in Uintah County. Out of the 22 human cases of West Nile Virus in the state, there has been 1 death and 9 that presented with fever and 13 that were categorized as neuroinvasive. Most people who become infected develop only mild symptoms but some people develop a serious neurologic illness. Horses are also susceptible. During West Nile Virus season, residents are asked to take precautions seriously if outside between dusk and dawn. Wear long sleeves and pants. Use a repellent with 20 to 30 percent DEET. Remove standing water and maintain screens and doors to keep mosquitoes at bay.
