The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) reports West Nile virus activity is increasing across the state. So far this year, there have been three confirmed human cases in Iowa, however, non-human infections are increasing with three equine cases and three positive mosquito pool samples. Last year, more than 100 human cases were reported with nine of those resulting in death. Health officials say West Nile virus season generally lasts from late summer into the early fall. In 2018, the majority of cases were diagnosed with the onset of symptoms between mid-August and the end of September. Iowans are encouraged to take steps to reduce their risk of exposure, such as: limiting their time outdoors when mosquitoes are most active, clearing standing water from around their homes and using proper insect sprays. For more information on vector-borne illnesses seen in Iowa, follow the link included with this story on our website.
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