OSDH Reports 1st West Nile Virus Case & Death Of 2024

The Oklahoma State Department of Health confirmed that a southwest Oklahoma resident was the first human case and death caused by West Nile Virus (WNV) in 2024 in the state.

OSDH says that the individual was hospitalized before passing.

WNV spreads through an infected mosquito's bite, and in Oklahoma, WNV is commonly spread by the "Culex" mosquito that feeds on infected birds, according to OSDH.

OSDH stated that this type of mosquito will increase in mid to late summer when temperatures are hot and dry.

OSDH officials are reminding the public to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites.

Tips to avoid mosquito bites and prevent WNV:

1. Use an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 on exposed skin and clothing when going outdoors, particularly between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are more likely to bite. Insect repellent with permethrin should be used on clothing only.
2. Repair or install window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of the home.
3. Prevent items such as buckets, cans, pool covers, flower pots, children’s toys and tires from holding water to prevent providing mosquitoes a place to breed.
4. Empty any pet’s outdoor water bowl and refill daily.
5. Scrub and refill bird baths every three days.
6. Clean leaves and debris from rain gutters regularly to ensure they are not clogged.

What are the symptoms of WNV?

Per OSDH: "While the vast majority of individuals with WNV will likely never experience symptoms following an infection, those with symptoms, are often mild and may include sudden fever, headache, dizziness or muscle weakness.

Recovery typically occurs within one to three weeks.

People older than 50 years, diabetics, or those experiencing uncontrolled hypertension are at a greater risk of developing severe neurologic disease from WNV infection. When the disease affects the nervous system, it can cause confusion or disorientation, loss of consciousness, paralysis, neck stiffness or coma.

Long-lasting complications of WNV disease can include difficulty concentrating, migraines, headaches, extreme muscle weakness and tremors, and paralysis of a limb. There is no vaccine or treatment drug for this illness. The best defense is taking steps to avoid mosquito bites."

For more information about WNV, visit the OSDH website at, West Nile Virus (oklahoma.gov).