Mosquito Samples Show Possible West Nile Activity in Several Neighborhoods

Update Aug. 28: The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has confirmed two human cases of West Nile virus in Virginia Beach.

The City of Virginia Beach has increased mosquito control efforts in response. Our Communications Office is working closely with VDH to provide timely information and guidance to residents.

VDH has published West Nile virus educational materials and fact sheets, which residents are encouraged to review and share with neighbors who may have concerns. These can be found on VDH’s social media channels.

If you have questions about West Nile virus prevention or symptoms please contact the Virginia Department of Health media team.

Original Release Aug. 19:

Virginia Beach Public Works announced an increase in the number of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) detected in the last three weeks.  

The positive mosquitoes have been collected from the following neighborhoods: Aragona, Kempsville area, College Park, Brigadoon Forest, Thalia area, Plaza, Pembroke, Bay Colony, Green Run and Wesleyan Pines.

Mosquito Control has increased their treatment activities in the affected areas. Daytime crews are focusing on treating standing water in the affected areas. The nighttime crews are treating these areas as weather permits.  

Residents are advised to take precautions, including: 

• Pour out any containers collecting water on your property weekly. Stagnant, standing water offers a prime breeding site for mosquitoes.  
• Wear long sleeves and long pants, loose-fitting, light-color clothing. 
• Minimize outdoor activity around dusk and dawn when the mosquitoes that transmit WNV are most active. 
• Consider using insect repellant, being sure to follow all label instructions. 

West Nile Virus (WNV) is a viral disease that is spread to birds, humans and other mammals through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Most people infected with WNV have no symptoms, however some people have mild flu-like symptoms and a small portion of those with symptoms can develop more serious neurological disorders. To date, no human cases have been reported in Virginia Beach.  

People over the age of 50, those with known chronic medical conditions or those with a weakened immune system are at a higher risk for serious illness from WNV. 

For more information, please visit:

• vdh.virginia.gov/mosquitoes 
• VirginiaBeach.gov/Mosquito