West Nile Virus Detected in Bucks

DOYLESTOWN, Pa. -- Bucks County had the fourth-highest number of West Nile Virus detections in Pennsylvania last year, according to the state Health Department, warning the season now underway already has local findings and could finish worse than 2023.

So far this year, 26 mosquito samples in Bucks have tested positive for West Nile Virus. Specific locations were not identified.

“West Nile Virus has been detected this year in Northern, Central and Southern portions of Bucks County,” said Ray Buckley, coordinator, Bucks County West Nile Virus Program. “This season is expected to have higher prevalence than 2023.”

The county last year registered 242 positives, including one human infection of the disease for which there is no known cure. .

The mosquito-borne virus usually causes flu-like symptoms. Most people infected do not experience symptoms, but about one in five develop fever, headache and fatigue. In about one in 150 cases, a more serious effect can result with brain swelling and even death.

Buckley said that as time passes and temperatures cool, the prevalence decreases.

Said he: “The prevalence of West Nile Virus generally peaks around the end of August and beginning of September. As temperatures cool, mosquito activity decreases along with West Nile Virus.”

The county began monitoring efforts in the spring aimed at reducing mosquito populations and lowering the risk of West Nile Virus infection.

“Bucks County Department of Health began conducting outreach, removing mosquito habitats, responding to complaints and treating standing water for mosquito larvae,” he said.

Mosquitoes are trapped for testing.

“West Nile Virus is monitored in adult mosquitoes utilizing traps,” he said. “The mosquitoes are then sent to the state lab for analysis.”

Buckley said that though West Nile Virus isn’t necessarily the top headline, the public never forgets a mosquito’s sting.

“Mosquitoes tend to stay on the minds of residents going outside,” he said. “But transmission of mosquito-borne diseases may go by the wayside. If residents are able to apply mosquito repellent and frequently remove standing water from their properties, that not only helps our mosquito program at Bucks County Health Department but also helps to protect the health of Bucks County residents.”

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Mosquitoes are the culprit in West Nile Virus.Photo byPrashant bamnawatonUnsplash