West Nile Virus detected in neighboring counties in late September

WALLA WALLA–The Walla Walla County Department of Community Health (WWCDCH), Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD), and the Washington State Department of Health have confirmed two cases of West Nile virus in residents from Walla Walla and Franklin counties, diagnosed within the last week of September. Both people were most likely exposed within their county of residence.

In addition, WSDA also announced two horse cases of West Nile virus, in Grant and Benton counties most likely exposed within their counties.

Health officials caution the public to avoid mosquito bites, contact your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms consistent with West Nile virus, and encourage human and animal healthcare providers to consider West Nile virus in patients with symptoms. Horses can be vaccinated for West Nile virus, with an annual booster shot available. There is currently no West Nile virus vaccine available for humans.