The number of West Nile Virus cases in Iowa has now reached double digits. The tenth case of West Nile Virus in a human in Iowa this year is reported in a college-aged female from Shelby County. She is currently recovering from the illness. Public health officials say that, even though summer is winding down, the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile Virus remains.
In fact, cases of West Nile Virus typically peak in late September into October, until the first hard frost. Officials say Iowans can reduce the risk of exposure to West Nile Virus by using an insect repellent with DEET in it; avoiding outdoor activity at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active; wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when outside; and eliminating standing water, which is a favorite breeding ground for mosquitoes.