West Nile virus has been confirmed in mosquitoes collected across Cabarrus County, and the Cabarrus Health Alliance is urging Concord and Harrisburg residents to protect themselves through the end of October.

CHA Environmental Health staff collected mosquitoes on July 8, July 16 and July 20 that tested positive for the virus, according to a public health alert posted Aug. 6 on the Cabarrus County website. The State Laboratory of Public Health confirmed the results July 30.

The Independent Tribune first reported the detection Aug. 7.

County mosquito control officials regularly monitor Culex and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, both known carriers of West Nile. CHA said the detections are typical for early in the July-to-October transmission season, with peak mosquito activity expected in August and September.

Who is most at risk

Most people infected with West Nile show no symptoms. About one in five develop fever, headache, body aches or rash, and most recover completely, though fatigue can linger for weeks.

Less than 1% of those infected develop serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis. The young, elderly and immunocompromised face the greatest risk.

What residents should do

CHA recommends residents limit outdoor activity at dusk and dawn, when West Nile-carrying mosquitoes are most active, and follow these steps:

  • Tip and toss standing water from flowerpots, children's toys, wading pools and buckets once a week.
  • Drain puddles and ditches that hold water more than four days after rain.
  • Use insect repellent containing DEET when outdoors.
  • Wear long sleeves and pants after dark.
  • Change water in bird baths and pet bowls at least twice a week.
  • Keep gutters clean and use screened windows and doors.

Free mosquito dunks available

CHA is offering free mosquito dunks, a larvicide treatment, to Cabarrus County residents at two locations while supplies last:

  • CHA Brown Mill — 526 Cabarrus Ave. W., Concord
  • CHA Kannapolis — 300 Mooresville Road, Kannapolis

The dunks are first-come, first-served. They can also be purchased at most major retailers.

Residents who want to report a mosquito problem can call CHA's Environmental Health Department at (704) 920-1207 or submit a service request at cabarrushealth.org/176/Mosquito-Prevention.

Horse owners should consult their veterinarian about West Nile vaccines, which are available for horses but not people. There is no human vaccine. CHA also detected West Nile in local mosquitoes in October 2024.

The transmission season runs through October.

Upcoming community events

  • Monday, Aug. 10: Back-to-school week begins for 35,000 Cabarrus County students.
  • Tuesday, Aug. 11: Harrisburg Town Council meets.
  • Tuesday, Aug. 18: Harrisburg Planning and Zoning Board meets.