West Nile Virus Alert in NC | Winston–Salem News

North Carolina just confirmed its first human case of West Nile virus in 2026 — and officials are sounding the alarm as mosquito activity surges statewide. The virus, spread through bites from infected mosquitoes (which pick it up from wild birds), is showing up earlier than usual this summer in counties like Cabarrus, Forsyth, and Mecklenburg. While it doesn’t spread person-to-person, older adults and those with weakened immune systems face higher risks of severe illness. There’s no vaccine or cure, so if you feel sick after a bite, see a doctor right away. Mosquitoes bite mostly at dawn and dusk — so use repellent during those hours, eliminate standing water around your home (even in pet bowls and bird baths), fix leaky gutters, and ensure window screens are intact. Staying proactive now can keep you safe all season long. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/6711383fc7272247