Mapped: West Nile Virus activity in Georgia

West Nile virus infections were up statewide last year — a good reminder to mount a defense against mosquitos this spring.

By the numbers: The Centers for Disease Control counted 53 Georgia cases of West Nile virus in humans in 2024.

• 18 human cases were in Fulton County, with 13 in DeKalb County and 3 in Cobb County. Other counties reported one or two human cases or a few non-human cases.

Catch up quick: That's a significant increase from 2023, when Georgia had 19 confirmed human infections, according to the CDC.

Between the lines: West Nile is mostly found in birds but can also infect humans, horses and other animals.

• Mild symptoms include headaches, fevers or fatigue. Most people who are infected — roughly 80% — feel no symptoms, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.
• Severe infections can cause encephalitis or meningitis.

The bottom line: The best way to dodge mosquito-borne illnesses is to prevent mosquito bites, DPH says.

• Wear insect repellent, make sure your yard is level and free of weeds and remove any standing water around your home.
• Or consider a backyard experiment like taping a screen to a box fan or creating mosquito traps out of buckets.
• You can also wear long-sleeved pants, shirts and socks while outside (mosquitos are most active at dawn and dusk, according to DPH).