First Positive Test of The Season For Deadly Disease Found In Boise

Today, Canyon Country announced that West Nile virus had been detected in mosquitoes that were collected on July 5. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), "About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal illness." 

1 in 5 people infected with West Nile virus develop a fever and other symptoms, including severe headache, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, and more. 

The mosquitoes were located South of Nampa, Idaho, near Lake Lowell and the confluence of the Boise and Snake Rivers West of Parma. Jim Lunders, the Director of Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District, said, "This is the 2nd Treasure Valley County reporting positive mosquito pools." The Canyon Country Mosquito Abatement District sets up gravid traps and dry ice baited EVS Traps at over 100 locations throughout the Canyon Country to monitor for adult mosquito populations. 

To date, they have tested over 200 mosquito pools for West Nile virus this season, and Wednesday's positive test was the first this season. Adult and larval mosquitoes were collected at the site. 

The Idaho Health Department said that West Nile Virus "can cause serious illness in people of any age, but especially in people over the age of 50 or those with underlying medical conditions." 

What are you doing to prevent exposure to West Nile Virus? 

Jim Launders said, "With the increased risk of West Nile virus, we encourage people to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites." Below you'll find 9 ways to prevent mosquito bites and mosquitoes gathering near your home.