OSDH: First Human Cases Of West Nile Virus Reported In Oklahoma In 2023

The first human infections of the West Nile virus have been reported in Oklahoma in 2023, according to the State Department of Health.

The health department said four human infections have occurred in central, south-central and southeast Oklahoma, including one case in Oklahoma County.

The virus spreads through infected mosquitoes. The department said the virus is predominantly spread by the Culex mosquito and feeds on infected birds before spreading the virus when biting humans, horses and several other mammals.

This type of mosquito appears more in the mid to late summer where temperatures are typically higher, the department said.

Most people who are infected with the virus will likely not see symptoms after they're infected, but the symptoms include sudden fever, headaches and body and joint pain, according to the department. The department said that when the disease hit the nervous system it can lead to confusion or disorientation, loss of consciousness, paralysis, neck stiffness or coma.

“We expect human cases of WNV every year,” Jolianne Stone, the State Epidemiologist, said. “Typically, summertime is the beginning of the WNV season in Oklahoma, so with more people participating in outdoor activities there are increased opportunities for encountering infected mosquitoes.”

How To Prevent Mosquito Bites

Officials with the department are advising people to prevent mosquito bites by doing the following:

1. Use an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 on exposed skin and clothing when going outdoors, particularly between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are more likely to bite. Insect repellent with permethrin should be used on clothing only.
2. Repair or install window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of the home.
3. Prevent items such as buckets, cans, pool covers, flowerpots, children’s toys and tires from holding water to prevent providing mosquitoes a place to breed.
4. Empty pet’s outdoor water bowl and refill daily.
5. Scrub and refill bird baths every three days.
6. Clean leaves and debris from rain gutters regularly to ensure they are not clogged.