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(Polk County, IA) -- Iowa is seeing a rise in the number of mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus.
The Polk County Health Department says mosquito traps statewide are showing the highest amount of West Nile virus activity in more than 20 years. Most people infected will develop no symptoms, but roughly 1 in 5 people could experience fever, a rash, and body aches. West Nile virus is spread by the bites of infected mosquitoes but cannot be transmitted from person to person.
The first documented human case of West Nile virus in 2025 was identified on Thursday in Northern Iowa. The Polk County Health department recommends people use EPA approved insect repellent, wear long sleeves and long pants, and avoid having standing water on their property.
More information on West Nile virus is available on the Centers for Disease Control website.