West Nile virus detected in South Carolina mosquitoes - WYFF

What the report says

WYFF4 Greenville reported that West Nile virus has been found in mosquitoes collected from several traps in Beaufort County, South Carolina. The report, updated July 21, said officials detected infected mosquitoes near the coast as warmer weather contributes to increased mosquito activity.

The station cited Dr. Jeremy Byrd, an internal medicine and pediatrics physician with Prisma Health, who urged residents to focus on preventing bites. Recommended steps include using EPA-approved insect repellent, wearing long sleeves when possible, keeping window screens in good repair and removing standing water around homes. Victoria Hyrczyk, a technical adviser with Mosquito Authority, told WYFF that common sources such as birdbaths, irrigation runoff and gutters can provide breeding sites for mosquitoes.

According to the report, most people who contract West Nile virus do not become sick. Those who develop symptoms may experience fever, headaches or other flu-like illness, while a much smaller share can develop serious neurological complications such as confusion or seizures. WYFF also reported Byrd’s warning that West Nile virus is not only a distant concern and should be considered a local public health risk.

The detection matters because mosquito surveillance can signal increased risk before human cases are identified. Residents in affected areas are being encouraged to contact local mosquito control agencies about infestations and to reduce mosquito breeding conditions on their property.