Health officials in Nashville are urging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites after a detection of West Nile virus in mosquitoes for the first time this year.
The Metro Public Health Department announced the virus was found in a mosquito pool collected near Cass Street in North Nashville, marking the city's first detection of West Nile virus in 2026 and the earliest positive mosquito sample of the season.
The detection comes after health officials elevated West Nile virus activity in mosquito pools during 2025, when one human case of the virus was confirmed.
Residents are being educated on how to reduce the presence of mosquitoes in their community and protect themselves and their families from mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus.
According to health officials, West Nile virus is the leading mosquito-borne disease in the United States, and most people infected with the virus do not develop symptoms.
However, about one in five people experience fever, headaches, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash, while fewer than 1% develop a serious neurological illness that can affect the brain or spinal cord.
Older adults and people with weakened immune systems face the greatest risk of developing a serious illness from West Nile virus.
Public health officials are taking steps to reduce mosquito populations, including increasing mosquito trapping, monitoring standing water, and applying larvicide where needed.
The department is also distributing educational flyers in the affected neighborhood and offering free backyard inspections to identify areas where mosquitoes may be breeding.
Residents are encouraged to eliminate standing water from bird baths, flowerpots, buckets, old tires, children's toys, and other outdoor containers where mosquitoes lay eggs.
Trimming overgrown vegetation around homes can also help reduce mosquito activity.
Health officials recommend using EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors during peak mosquito hours, and making sure window and door screens are in good repair.
Reducing mosquito breeding around homes can help lower the risk of West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses throughout the community.
