IN THE KNOW: Expert urges repellent, standing water removal as West Nile cases rise in Georgia
Experts urge Georgians to protect themselves as mosquito season continues through the Fall Season.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- As Georgia enters the final months of mosquito season, state health officials are urging residents to take extra precautions against mosquito bites amid a rise in West Nile virus cases in metro Atlanta and across the state.
The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed eight human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) so far in 2026, including one death. Mosquitoes trapped in several counties, including Chatham, Fulton, and DeKalb, have also tested positive for the virus.
“Although most people infected with West Nile virus will not develop symptoms, the elderly, young children, and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for severe illness,” said Brent Phelan BCE (Med-Vet), Division Technical Director for Orkin Northeast.
With mosquito season typically lasting through November, Phelan warned that the risk of infection remains. DPH says symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash that usually develop within a week after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
Phelan stressed the importance of getting rid of standing water, even if it is a small amount of water. He also stressed the need to use insect repellent and to wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that covers arms and legs.
“Mosquito season in Georgia and in Metro Georgia doesn’t really end until November, so you’re going to be seeing mosquitoes until November. They’re going to be out and biting until temperatures are consistently below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re going to be out looking for food sources.”
Phelan says most people who are infected don’t even know it, but it’s important to take every bite seriously, especially if you’re in a higher-risk group.
