Disease’s detection in insects collected at Eagle Point trap is first of 2026
| What you should know: Mosquitoes in Jackson County have tested positive for West Nile virus. Residents should protect themselves against mosquitoes, which can spread West Nile to people. Use insect repellants, eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed, and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors. |
PORTLAND, Ore.—West Nile virus (WNv) has been detected in a mosquito pool collected July 15 in Eagle Point, marking the first time in 2026 that the virus has been detected.
July, August and September are considered peak months for WNv activity in Jackson County. The mosquitoes were collected by the Jackson County Vector Control District as part of a routine surveillance program and DNA testing.
Mosquito pools are traps that hold up to 50 insects. County vector control districts around the state use the pools to collect mosquitoes so they can be tested for mosquito-borne diseases that affect humans and animals, such as birds and horses.
Residents are urged to take basic precautions against mosquitoes since WNv is spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. People should consult their health care providers if they experience any flu-like symptoms, especially in people older than 50 with underlying health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Health care providers can contact the Jackson County Health Department for information on WNv testing.
The virus also affects wildlife and domesticated and farm animals. Horse owners should get their horses vaccinated for WNv. Horses with neurologic disease should be examined by a veterinarian. WNv testing is available at Oregon State University.
OHA and the Jackson County Vector Control District suggest these steps to protect against mosquitoes:
- Eliminate or treat sources of standing water around your home.
- Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Use repellants containing DEET, oil of lemon/eucalyptus, or Picardin (always follow label directions).
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors.
- Ensure that screen doors and windows are in good condition and fit tightly.
West Nile virus is detected every year in Oregon, although mostly in mosquito pools. In 2023, the virus was found in 70 mosquito pools, four horses and 17 people; in 2024, there were 21 West Nile-positive mosquito pools, but no human or animal infections; in 2025, 11 mosquito pools, two horses and two people—both of the human infections were acquired outside Oregon—were infected.
Additional information about West Nile virus:
- OHA website: http://public.health.oregon.gov/DiseasesConditions/DiseasesAZ/WestNileVirus/Pages/survey.aspx
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/index.html
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