facebook-pixel

Utah’s first West Nile death of 2019 confirmed by health officials

(Rick Bowmer | AP file photo) Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District biologist Nadja Reissen examines a mosquito in Salt Lake City on Aug. 26, 2019. Utah has reported its first death in 2019 from West Nile virus.

(Rick Bowmer | AP file photo) Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District biologist Nadja Reissen examines a mosquito in Salt Lake City on Aug. 26, 2019. Utah has reported its first death in 2019 from West Nile virus.

Utah health officials are confirming a death from West Nile Virus.

In its weekly report, the Utah Department of Health identified one death related to the mosquito-borne illness.

Nineteen cases have been reported statewide, according to the report.

In 2018, 11 residents contracted the virus and one person died. Symptoms can include headaches, joint pains and a high fever — but 70% to 80% of people who are infected develop no symptoms, health officials said.

“Less than 1% of people infected will develop a serious neurologic illness, such as meningitis,” the report states.

State health officials have said mosquitos may enjoy more habitat this year than last, thanks to an increase in precipitation.

Support free news for Utah

sltrib.com is now free to access — no subscription required. We made this decision because we believe access to trustworthy, independent news shouldn’t depend on what you can afford — especially as misinformation and AI-generated content continue to rise.

Free to read doesn’t mean free to produce. Our reporters show up every day to ask hard questions and hold powerful institutions to account. That work takes resources. As a nonprofit newsroom, we rely on support from people who believe it matters. Make a donation today to fund local news that serves Utah communities.

You can help us bring more local news to more communities today.