Delaware reports first case of West Nile virus since 2018

The Division of Public Health said that a 69-year-old Kent County man was infected.

Associated Press

September 6, 2021

In this Aug. 16, 2012 file photo, mosquitos are sorted at the Dallas County mosquito lab in Dallas. (AP Photo/LM Otero, File)

Health officials in Delaware have announced the state’s first case of the West Nile virus since 2018.

The Division of Public Health said in a news release on Friday that a 69-year-old Kent County man was infected.

An investigation is underway to confirm any travel history or sources that could have led to the transmission. The health department is not releasing the man’s name or other information to protect his privacy.

WHYY thanks our sponsors — become a WHYY sponsor

West Nile can be very serious and even deadly, particularly in vulnerable populations, state health officials said. Ten human West Nile cases were reported in Delaware in 2018. Those cases included two deaths.

The virus is a mosquito-borne illness. It’s generally transmitted in summer and fall. The peak period is from mid-August to mid-October.

Health officials say that people should wear insect repellent when going outdoors.

WHYY thanks our sponsors — become a WHYY sponsor

WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.