West Nile Virus Detected in Mosquitoes

State and local health officials are reporting today the first Montana West Nile virus (WNV) detections for summer 2024 in mosquitoes across four counties.

Six mosquito pools in Blaine, Dawson, Prairie, and Wibaux counties have tested positive for WNV. Detection in mosquitoes is an early indicator that activity is increasing within the state, putting humans at higher risk of illness. Historically, Montana identifies the first human and/or horse WNV cases of the year within about two weeks of detecting WNV in mosquitoes.

"Now is the time to take action against WNV if you haven't already started...