Utah's West Nile mosquito activity is ramping up

Driving the news: Nearly 300 mosquito samples in Utah have tested positive for the virus this year, a sharp increase from 39 positive samples at this point in 2025, according to the county health department.

• That includes 86 positive samples in Salt Lake County.

Catch up quick: The Bear River Health Department reported the state's first human case of 2026 in late June — almost two months earlier than last year, when Utah's first case wasn't reported until mid-August.

Zoom in: County health officials recommend using EPA-approved mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants after sunset, and removing standing water near your home.

• Mosquitoes like to stay in the shade during the day, so keeping your lawn mowed and weeds trimmed could help you avoid the pesky insects.