Originally Submitted: Aug. 2, 2021
As of Aug. 2, 2021, the South Dakota Department of Health (SD DOH) indicated that West Nile virus positive mosquitoes were detected in Brookings, Codington, Hughes, Lincoln and Brown counties in South Dakota. So far, there have been three reported human cases of West Nile virus from Walworth, Douglas and Davison counties. Although human cases are currently low, the SD DOH is currently predicting 108 West Nile virus cases this season (Figure 1).
Even though case numbers are currently low, it’s important to remember that evening activities should be monitored, and an attempt to avoid mosquito bites should be made. As mentioned in our previous article, Will Mosquitos Be an Issue During This Summer?,there are two mosquitos that account for most of the human bites and the risk associated with contracting the West Nile virus. Another of our previous articles, Enjoying the Outdoors Without Tick and Mosquito Bites, discusses practices that can reduce mosquito bites.
If you are outside after dark, make sure to cover as much of your skin as possible by wearing long sleeves and pants. We also recommend using insect repellants that contain DEET or similar active ingredients to provide further protection. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides a helpful tool for choosing a repellant that will provide the best protection based on the desired activities.
