West Nile Virus Found in South Whitehall Mosquito

The West Nile virus, already having its biggest-ever year, continues to be a threat.

Fourty-four mosquito samples recently tested positive for the virus, including one in South Whitehall, according to the state's West Nile Control Program.

In August the Lehigh County West Nile Program conducted an ultra-low volume to reduce high populations of mosquitoes that have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

Two men were infected with the virus in Lehigh County so far this year.

The West Nile virus is the worst ever, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The number of cases so far this year is the highest recorded since the disease was first detected in the United States in 1999.

As of Aug. 21, 38 states had reported human infections. The cases reported to the CDC total 1,118, including 41 deaths.

Certain mosquito species carry the West Nile virus, which can cause humans to contract West Nile encephalitis, an infection that can result in an inflammation of the brain.

For more information about West Nile virus and the state’s surveillance and control program, go to www.westnile.state.pa.us.