Mosquitoes With West Nile Found Near Casper; County to Spray

Natrona County Weed and Pest Control will conduct aerial spray after mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus were discovered west of Natrona County International Airport on August 9.

Spraying will commence after sundown on Aug. 16 and 17 and will conclude at 10 p.m. Duet HD, the pesticide being used, does not pose a threat to domestic animals or humans, Natrona County Weed and Pest said Monday.

Wyoming's first case of the West Nile Virus this year was reported on June 10 in Campbell County.

There were four reported Wyoming cases of the virus in 2018 with one being fatal, according to the Wyoming Department of Health.

Most people infected with West Nile do not have symptoms. Those who do become sick may experience fever, headache, body aches and swollen lymph nodes.

A very small number of people may develop West Nile neuroinvasive disease with symptoms including severe headaches, fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors and paralysis.

The Wyoming Department of Health offers these tips to prevent getting West Nile:

• Mosquitoes feed mostly at dawn and dusk, so avoid spending time outside during these times.
• Wear shoes, socks, long pants and long-sleeved shirt to prevent bites. Clothing should be light-colored and made of tightly-woven material.
• Mosquitoes breed in shallow, stagnant water. Reduce the amount of standing water by draining it.
• Use insect repellents containing DEET.