FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:July 2, 2026

LAS VEGAS – The Southern Nevada Health District is reporting 10 additional mosquito pools that have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), bringing the total number of positive mosquito pools identified this season to 14.

The newly identified positive mosquito pools were detected in ZIP codes 89117, 89121, 89142 and 89146. The Health District continues mosquito surveillance efforts throughout Clark County and reminds residents that the presence of West Nile virus in mosquitoes increases the risk of human infection.

“These additional positive mosquito pools are a reminder that West Nile virus activity is increasing in Southern Nevada,” said Dr. Cassius Lockett, District Health Officer for the Southern Nevada Health District. “As many people plan to spend time outdoors during the holiday weekend, we encourage everyone to take simple precautions to prevent mosquito bites.”

The update follows a statement issued today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which reported that West Nile virus activity is occurring earlier than usual across the country. As of June 30, 2026, 23 states have reported West Nile virus activity, and the number of human cases reported by this point in the year is the highest since 2004.

Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms. Approximately one in five people develop a fever with symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Less than 1% of infected people develop severe neurologic illness, including encephalitis or meningitis. Adults 60 years of age and older and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for severe illness.

The Health District recommends the following steps to reduce the risk of mosquito bites:

• Use an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Remove standing water around homes and businesses where mosquitoes can breed.
• Ensure window and door screens fit properly to keep mosquitoes outside.

The Health District conducts mosquito surveillance throughout Clark County and works with local partners to implement mosquito control measures when virus activity is detected. Residents can stay informed about local mosquito surveillance activity by visiting the Health District’s weekly West Nile virus surveillance reports at www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/programs/mosquito-surveillance/arbovirus-update/.

Previous West Nile Virus Updates

June 24, 2026: First West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes identified in Clark County this season

June 3, 2026: First West Nile virus cases of the season reported

March 9, 2026: Southern Nevada Health District begins mosquito surveillance one month early

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.