DHSS cautions Missouri residents after West Nile virus kills three

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is sending a reminder out to Missourians to be vigilant after a surge of West Nile virus cases this year.

According to DHSS, three people have died among 15 who have been hospitalized due to the mosquito-borne disease. These numbers are the highest Missouri has seen in recent years.

Officials are investigating additional cases, they noted.

The infection may not show any symptoms in some people, but one in five may experience flu-like symptoms. This includes a fever, headache, or body aches. In more extreme cases—especially in older adults or those with weaker immune systems—the virus can lead to brain or spinal cord swelling and paralysis.

“West Nile virus is a serious public health concern, and this year’s increase in cases is a reminder that we must remain vigilant,” Dr. George Turabelidze, state epidemiologist at DHSS, said in a release. “We are asking all Missourians to take simple but effective steps to protect themselves and their families.”

Among the St. Louis region, there have been three probable WNV cases in the City of St. Louis, one confirmed case and two probable in St. Louis County, one probable case in Jefferson County and one probable case in St. Charles County as of Oct. 4, according to data.

To minimize chances of contracting the infections, residents can:

• Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or IR3535
• Wear long sleeves and pants when mosquitos are most active during dawn and dusk
• Remove any standing water in flowerpots, gutters, birdbaths, tires, etc.
• Keep screen windows and doors in good condition with no tears
• Report dead birds to the Missouri Department of Conservation

For more information about West Nile virus, click here.