News Summary
The Chatham County Mosquito Control Department has confirmed its second case of West Nile Virus for the year in midtown Savannah. This comes amid a predicted surge in mosquito populations, raising public health concerns. Although the director of the department indicated it could be a down year for WNV cases, the recent detections highlight the ongoing threat. With the history of WNV cases in Georgia, particularly in Savannah, public health experts recommend preventive measures to mitigate risks associated with mosquito bites.
Savannah – On August 20, the Chatham County Mosquito Control Department confirmed its second case of West Nile Virus (WNV) for the year from a trap in midtown Savannah. This detection comes shortly after a mosquito forecast predicting a significant increase in mosquito numbers in the area last week. The increase in the mosquito population raises concerns for public health as transmission of this virus is linked directly to mosquito bites.
Ture Carlson, the director of the Mosquito Control Department, stated that it appears to be a “down year” for WNV cases despite the two confirmed detections in the area. The first case was identified earlier this year on July 7 in the same midtown location. However, Carlson has raised concerns about the rarity of WNV-free seasons, noting that these instances are becoming increasingly uncommon in Savannah.
West Nile Virus is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites and is mainly a disease of birds. The history of WNV in Georgia began with its first case reported in Savannah in 2001, located along the Atlantic Flyway. The systematic testing for WNV in Chatham County has been ongoing since 2003, revealing a pattern of WNV infections that typically cycle over a three-year period. Generally, high numbers of WNV cases are often followed by years with no reported cases, attributed to resets in bird populations that affect mosquito activity.
Recent changes in weather patterns, including disruptive events such as storms and droughts, have been influencing these established cycles and consequently increasing mosquito activity in the area. Savannah has not experienced a WNV-free year since 2016, which indicates a worrying trend for public health. In 2024, the Chatham County Mosquito Control Department discovered a record number of 218 pools of infected mosquitoes, attributed in part to flooding caused by Hurricane Debby.
The area most affected by WNV transmission extends across a 23.5 square-mile region, including Savannah’s downtown, historic, and Victorian districts. Local mosquito control efforts identify catch basins filled with standing water as prime breeding grounds for mosquitoes. In response, the department employs larvicides in these basins to prevent mosquito larvae from developing into biting adults.
Historically, the locations of WNV-infected mosquitoes have shifted over time, with more recent detections occurring closer to midtown rather than the traditional downtown hotspots. Typically, mosquitoes enter a dormant state as temperatures fall in the autumn months; however, human cases of WNV may increase from mid-August to September as avian hosts become less available for feeding.
The Georgia Department of Public Health has reported a total of 54 WNV cases statewide in 2024, with the majority of these presenting only mild symptoms. Severe cases, while less frequent, can lead to significant health complications including neurologic diseases and even death. Currently, there is no specific cure for WNV; treatment consists of supportive care to manage symptoms.
To mitigate the risk of infection, public health experts recommend several preventive measures. These include using insect repellents containing DEET, wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, and eliminating sources of standing water around homes and communities to decrease mosquito breeding opportunities. As the summer progresses and mosquito activity rises, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting themselves against West Nile Virus.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
West Nile Virus Confirmed in Mosquitoes in Savannah
Additional Resources
- Savannah Now
- Wikipedia: West Nile Virus
- WTOC
- Google Search: West Nile Virus prevention
- WJCL
- Google Scholar: West Nile Virus Savannah
- Island Packet
- Encyclopedia Britannica: West Nile Virus
- WRDW
- Google News: West Nile Virus Savannah 2025
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
