West Nile Virus Case Reported in Alabama

Alabama has reported its first case of West Nile virus for 2025, according to the state’s public health department, as mosquito season becomes more active.

Additionally, the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) noted cases of Dengue Fever and Malaria in residents who contracted these illnesses while traveling out of state.

“The increase of global travel has brought diseases that were once rare or unknown in the United States to our shores,” the ADPH stated.

They also pointed out that the prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases like Zika Virus, Chikungunya, Dengue Fever, and West Nile Virus has risen in recent years.

Symptoms of these diseases can vary. Interestingly, most people infected with West Nile virus—around 80%—won’t show any symptoms at all, though serious and even fatal cases, while less common, do occur.

In another announcement, the department emphasized that “mosquitoes can be much more than an annoyance.”

They explained that because mosquitoes are vectors, meaning they can transmit infectious diseases from animals to humans, organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) consider them one of the most dangerous insects globally.

While it’s nearly impossible to eliminate mosquitoes entirely, there are steps people can take to reduce their numbers around homes and yards:

• Weekly, empty, scrub, cover, or discard items that collect water, including tires, buckets, toys, birdbaths, and flowerpot saucers.
• Ensure water storage containers are tightly covered to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs inside.
• Trim weeds, vines, hedges, and grass since mosquitoes like to rest in these shady spots during the day.
• Maintain window and door screens in good shape.
• Use indoor insect foggers or sprays to kill mosquitoes inside, especially in dark, humid places like under sinks.

The ADPH also provided additional tips to minimize mosquito bites:

• Wear long sleeves and pants whenever possible.
• Treat clothing with repellents that contain permethrin or DEET.
• Dress children in loose-fitting clothing that covers their limbs and use mosquito netting on strollers.
• Apply repellent carefully to exposed skin, steering clear of the eyes, lips, and any wounds. The EPA has guidance to help choose the right repellent.

If you do get bitten and notice symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or a rash, the CDC advises contacting your healthcare provider.