Montana Just Got A New Reason To Hate Mosquitoes

West Nile Virus Detected in Montana

If you've been spending your summer outside, you probably don't need another reason to be annoyed by mosquitoes.

Unfortunately, Montana just got one.

No Human West Nile Cases Reported in Montana Yet

Both state and local health officials have confirmed that West Nile virus has been detected in Montana this year. In Roosevelt County, two mosquito pools tested positive, with health officials saying the virus will most likely spread across the state.

Thankfully, there's a bit of good news, and that's the fact that no human or horse cases have been reported in Montana so far this summer.

Still, that doesn't mean we're in the clear. Detecting the virus lets us know it's here, which means the chance of getting sick is also here. Health officials say that risk could continue through October, or as long as mosquitoes remain active.

So what can we actually do about them?

Canva

How To Protect Yourself From Mosquitoes In Montana

Montana health officials are recommending the usual mosquito-fighting strategy: use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin, get rid of standing water around your home, wear long sleeves and pants when possible, and take extra precautions around dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

Thankfully, only about one in five people infected with West Nile experience symptoms, which can include headaches, body aches, fatigue, and a rash. About one in 150 infections can lead to severe neurological illness.

If you're wondering why mosquitoes seem to like you more than most, take a look through our gallery below. You might be giving them more reasons to bite than you realize.

Source: Daily Montanan