Four Corners records first cases of West Nile

The Four Corners Health District (Butler, Polk, Seward and York Counties) has had its first human cases of West Nile Virus.  This week there was one case from Polk County and one case from York County. 

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird.  In turn, the mosquito can pass the virus to humans. 

“We want everyone to remember that we need to take precautions to protect ourselves from mosquito bites,” says Vicki Duey, Executive Director of the Four Corners Health Department.  To fight the bite:

*Use mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535;

*Eliminate mosquito breeding sites, such as standing water in garbage cans, gutters, ditches, wading pools, tires, plastic containers, flowerpots, or similar water-holding containers.  Change water in bird baths on a regular basis.

*Add larvicides (in the form of pellets or donuts to kill mosquito larvae) which can be purchased at most hardware, farm or gardening centers, to animal drinking troughs, water gardens, ornamental fountains, ditches and ponds.

*Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

*Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks.

*Ensure that window and door screens are in good repair.


Four Corners will continue to monitor mosquito pools and take reports of all species of dead birds.  All species of birds will be collected and submitted and tested for West Nile virus.  Dead birds to be collected for testing must be in good condition, with no evidence of maggots, decomposition or odor.

If you have questions about West Nile virus, call the Four Corners Health Department at 362-2621 or toll free (877) 337-3573.