Georgia reports first West Nile virus death of 2026; 8 confirmed cases
By WUPA News Staff
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ATLANTA, Georgia (WUPA) — Health officials in Georgia say one person has died from the West Nile Virus.
The Georgia Department of Health announced the death Wednesday after eight people have contracted the disease this year, a number that they expected will increase. Mosquito traps in several counties, including Fulton, Chatham and DeKalb, have tested positive for the virus, but this is the first deadly case of 2026.
Officials have not shared details about the deadly case, including when it happened, where it happened, or any identifying information about the individual.
DPH says that most people infected with West Nile Virus do not develop symptoms; however, those with compromised immune systems or people with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk of severe complications from the disease.
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows 18 confirmed cases in 2025. Across the country, the CDC reports 2,146 human cases and 172 deaths connected to the virus last year.
With mosquito season lasting through October, and the recent warm weather continuing, health officials are urging Georgians to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
Georgians reconsider outdoor routines after West Nile virus death DeKalb County mom, Esther Cruz Lopez, said she and her children spend a lot of time outside. But because of the eight confirmed West Nile virus cases in Georgia this year, their routine may change.
“Right now we are doing it usual, but if there’s any more concerns about it, then yeah, I’m going to have to have precautions about it,” Cruz Lopez said.
“That, that’s kind of scary,” Cruz Lopez said about the first West Nile Virus death in Georgia.
She said she will take other steps to make sure she and her family are safe.
“Just definitely gonna layer up on the bug spray and try to stay from outside,” Cruz Lopez said.
DeKalb County resident Daemon Baizan said that up until Wednesday, he didn’t know about the West Nile Virus cases in Georgia. He’s now rethinking when he’ll spend time outside.
“If I’m going to get out during the mosquito hour, I’m just gonna make sure there’s a good stiff breeze blowing so it makes it really tough for them to bite me,” Baizan said. “I know we’ve got mosquito repellent in the house somewhere. Probably be thinking more about that.”
How to protect yourself from West Nile virus The CDC recommends using an insect repellent registered with the Environmental Protection Agency, wearing long, loose-fitting shirts and pants so it is harder for mosquitoes to bite your skin, and avoiding being outside between dusk and dawn when the mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus are most active.
While most people infected with the virus do not develop symptoms, others can experience anything from fevers, headaches, vomiting, and more within two to six days after being bit. The virus can be extremely dangerous to elderly individuals, people with compromised immune systems, or those with other underlying medical conditions.
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