First Case of West Nile Virus Confirmed in Iowa for 2026

The first case of West Nile Virus in the state of Iowa in 2026 has been confirmed. The Des Moines Register reports that the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services confirmed the disease on Wednesday, August 5th, after testing was completed at the State Hygienic Laboratory. The Register reports that the infected person is from Eastern Iowa.

What Is West Nile Virus?

The virus is most commonly spread by infected mosquitoes. According to the Register, most people infected with West Nile do not have symptoms. Those who do often experience fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, and a rash. Less than 1% of West Nile cases result in an infection in the nervous system, but such an infection can lead to encephalitis or meningitis, according to the Register.

Cases of West Nile are common during the summer and peak in late August to early September. The virus is not contagious.

What Can I Do to Protect Myself?

Simply put, avoid mosquitoes. The Register reports that the CDC recommends using insect repellent, especially those with DEET, picaridin, lemon or eucalyptus oil, para-menthane-diol, 2-undecanone, or IR3535. Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed. And if you are spending time outside, wear long sleeves and avoid being outdoors during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

Last year, the Register reports there were 57 cases of West Nile in Iowa, with three deaths.