West Nile Virus Risk High in Kansas; Officials Urge Mosquito Precautions

Image courtesy Canva

The risk of West Nile virus is currently high across much of Kansas, with mosquito bites capable of spreading the disease. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has classified all of central Kansas as a high-risk area.

Areas that have seen the most rainfall this summer face the greatest risk. The virus is primarily spread by the Culex mosquito, one of many mosquito types found in Kansas.

People infected may not realize it, as symptoms can resemble those caused by other mosquito bites. Common signs include fever, headache, body aches, and vomiting. More serious symptoms can include neck stiffness and confusion.

To reduce the risk, experts recommend applying sunscreen first, followed by bug spray containing 15–30% DEET for up to eight hours of protection.

Sign up for the KCLY Digital Newspaper, The Regional

Name(Required)
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.