RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolinians are being asked to take extra precaution against mosquito bites when outdoors following recent reports of West Nile virus in the state.

What You Need To Know

  • To help prevent West Nile infection, NCDHHS is urging North Carolinians to take extra precautions against mosquito bites
  • Late summer and early autumn is the most common time to become infected with mosquito born diseases in N.C., according to health officials
  • Five cases have been reported in N.C. since Aug. 1
  • Typically, officials say only two or three cases have been reported by this time of year

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services says five cases have been reported since Aug. 1, which is above average for this point in the year. Health officials added those infected have recovered.

“As we move into the fall months and colder weather, this is a reminder that mosquitoes are still active and can transmit West Nile virus,” Michael Doyle, a state public health entomologist, said. “We urge residents to take precautions and protect themselves from mosquito bites and local governments to implement integrated mosquito management methods for mosquito control.”

Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms, according to information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), but those who do, about one in five, may experience any of the following:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Body aches
  • Joint pain
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Rash

The CDC says roughly one in 150 people will develop a severe illness, which affects the central nervous system, causing encephalitis or meningitis.

The NCDHHS recommends taking the following precautions to protect yourself from infection:

  • Use mosquito repellent that contains DEET (or equivalent) when outside in areas where mosquitoes might be present
  • Use caution when applying repellent to children. Click here for repellants that will work for you and your family
  • Install or repair and use window and door screens
  • Close doors without screens, including garage doors. Do not leave doors propped open
  • Use air conditioning if needed due to a lack of window or door screens
  • Reduce mosquito breeding by emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires, birdbaths, etc. at least once a week
  • If you think you or a family member might have WNV disease, talk with your health care provider

For more information on West Nile virus, click here. You can also get additional information on mosquito bite prevention by clicking here.