CHA: Precautions urged after West Nile virus found in Cabarrus County

Published on August 07, 2026

On behalf of the Cabarrus Health Alliance:

Cabarrus Health Alliance (CHA) reports that West Nile virus (WNV) was detected in mosquitoes collected by Environmental Health staff on 7/8/26, 7/16/26, and 7/20/26. Testing was conducted by the State Laboratory of Public Health (SLPH) on 7/30/26. It is typical to detect WNV in mosquitoes at these high levels early in the July to October WNV transmission season.

CHA reminds people to take precautions against mosquito bites following these recent reports of West Nile virus in mosquitoes.

The type of mosquitoes collected are responsible for circulating WNV in the wild bird population and transmitting it to humans. County mosquito control officials regularly monitor and test the mosquito species Culex and Ae Albopictus as well as other known WNV mosquito vectors to identify WNV activity throughout the summer and fall transmission season.

Individuals should take steps to minimize their exposure to mosquitoes during outside activities the remainder of the summer season, especially during dusk and dawn. Below are tips to help eliminate mosquito breeding and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne disease:

Use the “tip and toss” method oncer per week throughout the summer and fall. Tip out water in flowerpots, planters, children’s toys, wading pools, buckets and any containers that can hold water, even a small amount, including saucers under flower pots.
When possible, drain any standing water on your property such as puddles and ditches that hold water for more than four days after rain.
Use insect repellent containing DEET when outdoors, which also repels ticks. Remember to always follow product directions.
Wear long sleeves and pants after dark, when the WNV mosquitoes are most active, or stay indoors during these hours.
Store out-of-service or un-mounted tires under cover to prevent the collection of any water.
Change the water in bird baths and pet bowls at least twice a week.
Keep gutters clean and in good repair, and repair leaky outdoor faucets.
Make sure rain barrels have tight-fitting screens or lids.
Use screened windows and doors, and make sure screens fit tightly and are not torn.

The young, elderly, and immunocompromised populations are at greatest risk of WNV illness. Most people infected with WNV show no noticeable symptoms, but one in five people who are infected will develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Most people infected with WNV disease recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months. Less than 1% of people who are infected will develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis (inflammation of the brain or surrounding tissues). The symptoms of neurologic illness can include headache, high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, seizures, paralysis and death.

There is no vaccine for WNV in people, but vaccines are available to prevent WNV in horses. If you are a horse owner, consult your veterinarian regarding proper protective vaccines for your horses and change the water in water troughs at least twice a week to discourage mosquito breeding.

Mosquito dunks are available to Cabarrus County residents at Cabarrus Health Alliance's Brown Mill and Kannapolis locations. Supplies are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Mosquito dunks can also be purchased at most major retailers.

For more information regarding mosquitoes or mosquito control activities in your area, please contact Cabarrus Health Alliance’s Environmental Health Department (704) 920-1207 or visit https://www.cabarrushealth.org/176/Mosquito-Prevention to submit a mosquito service request online.