By Paul Waldmiller
Did you know that the 2026 West Nile virus season is the worst it’s been in 22 years?
The current case count running is nearly five times higher than the historical average for this time of year. As of late August, federal data shows that there are 22 confirmed human cases across 32 states including only one case here in Florida. The state of Arizona appears to be the epicenter of the disease, which accounts for roughly one-third of all national cases, followed by California and Texas.
Approximately 71% to 80% of cases are neuroinvasive, meaning the virus has attacked the brain or spinal cord, leading to hospitalization or permanent damage. Unusually excessive heat, heavy rains and flooding have accelerated mosquito breeding and the West Nile virus to be transmitted throughout the U.S.
Every Floridan should be aware just because our number of infections here are low, traveling to other states, or taking chances through being around mosquitos increases one’s chance of catching the disease. The most dangerous period, typically is now, that is late August through the month of September and is currently underway or just beginning,
It is imperative to also remember; there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for West Nile virus; prevention relies entirely on every Floridian avoiding being bit by mosquitos and eliminating standing water.