Health Officials Warn Nashville Residents About West Nile Virus

In Nashville, health officials are advising residents to take precautions against mosquito bites after the West Nile virus was detected in local mosquitoes for the first time this year. The Metro Public Health Department (MPHD) identified the virus in a mosquito pool near Cass Street in North Nashville, marking both the city’s first detection of the virus in 2026 and the earliest confirmation of the season.

This discovery follows a year when mosquito pools showed increased West Nile virus activity. In 2025, there was one confirmed human case of the virus.

“Everyone can contribute to reducing mosquito populations in our community. It helps keep outdoor spaces more enjoyable and decreases the risk of diseases like West Nile virus,” Dr. Sanmi Areola, MPHD’s health director, stated.

As officials work to educate locals about the risks, they hope that residents will take necessary steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquitoes this summer.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted that West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness in the U.S. While many infected individuals don’t show symptoms, about 20% can experience fever, headaches, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rashes. Less than 1% of cases lead to severe neurological issues, especially affecting older adults and those with weakened immune systems.

Public health officials typically monitor mosquito populations over summer, routinely capturing and testing them for West Nile virus. A positive result doesn’t mean the virus will spread to people in the area but serves as an early indicator of local transmission.

In response to the recent detection, MPHD is distributing educational materials in affected neighborhoods, stepping up mosquito trapping, monitoring stagnant water, and applying larvicide where necessary to reduce mosquito numbers. Notably, the department does not engage in spraying insecticides to target adult mosquitoes.

Residents have the option to request free inspections from the MPHD’s Pest Management team to identify potential mosquito breeding sites in their backyards.

Health officials advise eliminating standing water from places like bird baths, flowerpots, buckets, and children’s toys—common areas where mosquitoes lay eggs. Additionally, trimming back overgrown vegetation around homes can further mitigate mosquito activity.

To prevent bites, the health department recommends using EPA-approved insect repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Wearing long sleeves and pants during peak mosquito times, particularly at dusk and dawn, is also suggested, along with ensuring that window and door screens are well-maintained.

Ultimately, reducing mosquito breeding near homes is crucial for decreasing the risk of West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses in the community.