CDC reports case of West Nile Virus case in Knox County
So far in 2025, the CDC is reporting 10 cases across the U.S. Nearly a third of those are in Tennessee, which also has the most cases of all the states listed.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, better known as the CDC, is reporting three human cases of West Nile Virus in Tennessee, including one in Knox County.
So far in 2025, the CDC is reporting 10 cases across the U.S. Nearly a third of those are in Tennessee, which also has the most cases of all the states listed.
West Nile Virus is the leading mosquito bite-caused disease in North America, though only about one five people who are infected see symptoms, according to the CDC, and only one in about 150 people develop a serious illness.
Vanderbilt University Medical Center Dr. William Schaffner said, “If you become ill, obviously immediately contact your health care provider, and if you’ve experienced some mosquito bites, let them know about it so they can think about having West Nile differential on the diagnosis.”
There are plenty of ways to prevent West Nile Virus, which is primarily spread through mosquito bites. The CDC lists these recommendations:
- Use insect repellent
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants outside
- Treat clothing and outdoor gear
- Take steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors
The other two cases are being reported out of Carroll County and Shelby County.
Pest control groups in Knox County know the importance of taking care of mosquitos around the home when summer rolls around.
Will Bullard with Wayne’s Pest Control said, “Mosquitos plague outdoor living environments and community parks as well. They can really make the outdoors and enjoying your back patio or your deck a living nightmare really if they’re not controlled.”
Bullard said it’s important for people to check any areas where there may be standing water as mosquitoes use it as a breeding ground.
“If you’ve got any standing water over a half an inch, it needs to be checked out, so check your gutters, any wheel barrows, bird fountains. Anything like that that is holding water can also hold mosquitoes,” Bullard said.
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