West Nile Virus Detected in DeKalb County Mosquito Sample
A mosquito trap in DeKalb County, Atlanta has tested positive for the West Nile virus, according to health officials.
Atlanta, GA, August 24, 2026 —
Health officials have confirmed the presence of the West Nile virus in DeKalb County, Georgia, after a mosquito trap tested positive for the pathogen. The detection was announced by county health authorities, who are monitoring mosquito populations for disease-carrying insects.
The West Nile virus is most commonly transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While many people infected with the virus do not develop any symptoms, a subset can experience more severe illness, including neurological disease. Symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. In rare cases, the virus can cause West Nile neuroinvasive disease, which involves the inflammation of the brain or spinal cord and can lead to paralysis or even death.
Health officials typically conduct surveillance by setting up mosquito traps in various locations to monitor the prevalence of mosquitoes and test them for viruses like West Nile. The positive sample indicates that the virus is circulating in the local mosquito population.
Residents in DeKalb County and surrounding areas are advised to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. This includes using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus when outdoors, wearing long sleeves and pants, and ensuring that windows and doors have screens to keep mosquitoes out of homes. Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, making these times particularly important for taking preventative measures.
Additionally, officials recommend eliminating standing water around homes, as mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water. Common breeding sites include bird baths, clogged gutters, flowerpots, and old tires. Regularly emptying or treating these water sources can significantly reduce the mosquito population and the risk of virus transmission.
Further surveillance and control measures are expected to be implemented by DeKalb County health officials in response to this finding. The public will be kept informed of any new developments or recommendations related to West Nile virus activity in the area.
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