Health officials in Nashville have detected West Nile virus in mosquitoes for the first time in 2026, prompting a renewed call for residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites. The Metro Public Health Department (MPHD) announced the positive finding in a mosquito pool collected near Cass Street in North Nashville, marking the city's earliest detection of the virus for the season.
Last year, Nashville reported elevated West Nile virus activity, with one human case confirmed. The current detection serves as an early warning that the virus is circulating in the local mosquito population. While a positive mosquito sample does not guarantee human infection, it underscores the need for preventative measures.
West Nile virus is the leading mosquito-borne disease in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most infected individuals do not exhibit symptoms. However, approximately 20% may experience fever, headaches, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. In rare cases, fewer than 1% of those infected can develop serious neurological illness affecting the brain or spinal cord, with older adults and individuals with compromised immune systems being at higher risk.
In response to the detection, MPHD is distributing educational materials in the affected neighborhood, increasing mosquito trapping efforts, and monitoring for standing water. Larvicide will be applied where necessary to reduce mosquito populations, though the department does not spray insecticide to kill adult mosquitoes.
Residents can also request a free backyard inspection from the department's Pest Management team to identify potential mosquito breeding sites. Health officials recommend eliminating standing water in areas such as bird baths, flowerpots, buckets, old tires, and children's toys. Additionally, trimming overgrown vegetation around homes can help reduce mosquito habitats.
To prevent mosquito bites, the health department advises using EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors during peak mosquito activity, typically around dusk and dawn, and ensuring window and door screens are in good repair are also recommended measures. Reducing mosquito breeding grounds around homes is considered a key strategy in lowering the risk of West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses throughout the community.