SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) – The Georgia Department of Public Health has confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus in the Coastal Health District in 2026. Health officials said the individual is an adult resident of Chatham County. This is the second confirmed human case in Georgia this year to date. RELATED: Human tests positive for West Nile Virus antibodies, Memorial Health clarifies West Nile virus is a potentially serious illness transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 80% of people who get West Nile virus won’t have symptoms. Those who do develop symptoms typically experience fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. A small number of people will develop severe symptoms affecting the central nervous system, which could be fatal. MORE: Health officials urge caution after West Nile Virus detected in Chatham County mosquito Last year, the Georgia DPH said there were 18 confirmed human cases of West Nile virus in Georgia residents, and one in the Coastal Health District. There is no vaccine to prevent West Nile virus, and no treatment other than supportive care for the symptoms. The Coastal Health District reminds everyone to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus are more likely to bite during the evening, night, and early morning. Wearing insect repellent containing the chemical DEET or picaridin will help keep…
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