West Nile Virus Detected in DeKalb and Fulton Counties Amidst Humid Atlanta Weather
Mosquitoes in DeKalb and Fulton counties have tested positive for West Nile virus, raising concerns amid recent rainfall and humid weather in Atlanta. The health board has issued safety tips to prevent mosquito bites and potential infection.
Atlanta, GA, July 31, 2026 —
Mosquitoes collected in DeKalb and Fulton counties have recently tested positive for the West Nile virus, prompting alerts from local health officials. The findings come as the Atlanta metropolitan area experiences recent rainfall and humid weather conditions, which are conducive to mosquito breeding and activity.
The presence of the virus in mosquito populations raises concerns about potential human exposure and infection. West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While many people infected with the virus experience no symptoms or mild, flu-like illness, a small percentage can develop severe neurological disease.
In response to the positive test results, the local health board has reminded residents of important safety measures to reduce the risk of mosquito bites. These preventative tips are crucial for minimizing the potential for West Nile virus transmission.
Residents are advised to:
- Use insect repellent: Apply EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or other effective ingredients to exposed skin and clothing.
- Wear protective clothing: When outdoors during peak mosquito biting times (dusk and dawn), wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks.
- Install or repair screens: Ensure that windows and doors have well-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out of homes.
- Eliminate standing water: Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Residents should regularly empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out items that hold water, such as tires, buckets, planters, toys, swimming pools, birdbaths, and flowerpot saucers.
- Be aware of peak biting times: Mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus are most active at dawn and dusk.
Health officials are continuing to monitor mosquito populations and test for the presence of West Nile virus in the affected counties. Further information and updates will be provided as necessary. The health board urges all residents to take these precautions seriously to protect themselves and their families from mosquito-borne illnesses.
Story summarized from the original created by Victor Williams, Atlanta First News staff on www.atlantanewsfirst.com, see more information here.
