West Nile virus linked to 2 deaths in North Carolina; prolonged warm weather could be why, DHHS says

RALEIGH, N.C. -- North Carolina health officials are warning that West Nile virus transmission is currently high in parts of the state after two recent deaths linked to the virus.

According to a state health leader, transmission levels are elevated because of prolonged warm weather extending well into mid-October.

Officials said 2024 was the highest year on record for West Nile virus cases, and 2026 is shaping up to be the second highest.

The state health department reported that two people from central NC died after contracting West Nile virus.

The state's public health entomologist said there were more than 10 other cases in which people were infected by mosquitoes and the virus spread into their central nervous systems, causing brain swelling and other nerve-related damage.

Officials noted there is no vaccine available to protect against West Nile virus.

Medical professionals are encouraging residents to use insect repellent when spending time outdoors. They also said the mosquitoes that carry the virus tend to bite more frequently in the late evening, before and after dusk.

"As long as the weather stays warm and what I mean by warm is over 50s during the day, then the mosquito that carries it will continue to bite," said Michael Doyle, State Public Health Entomologist with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

Doyle also said the species of mosquito that carries West Nile virus commonly grows in residential yards.

He recommended removing standing water once a week to help reduce mosquito populations and lower the risk of transmission.