THD Confirms West Nile Virus Found In Sample Of Mosquitoes

The Tulsa Health Department said a sample of mosquitos in Tulsa County tested positive for the West Nile Virus.

Mandy Dixon with the Tulsa Health Department said they've been setting traps to test mosquitos for West Nile Virus since May.

This week, some mosquitos caught in a trap near 41st and Garnett had a positive West Nile Virus result.

So far, there have been no confirmed cases of a person sick with West Nile Virus in Tulsa County.

Dixon said it's still fine to go outside to parks like as long as you're careful.

According to Dixon, the biggest thing to remember is your bug spray and loose-fitting clothes. Otherwise, you could be taking a big risk.

"The virus can definitely spread quickly if we're not able to prevent mosquitos from breeding or eliminating the mosquitos that are carrying the virus," Dixon said.

Dumping out standing water and installing door screens will prevent mosquitos from breeding or entering your home.

As long as you make an extra effort, Dixon said the potential of West Nile spread decreases exponentially.

"If we do our part and we dump out standing water and wear insect repellent, when we're outside and preventing those bites, than can go a long way," Dixon said. 

Unlike COVID-19, Dixon said the West Nile Virus cannot be transmitted from person-to-person.

For Tulsans like Mike Tameny, this information gives him confidence that he'll be just fine.

"I feel comfortable out here," Tameny said. “If they attack me, I swat them and I usually can keep them away. This year, so far, I haven't had any problems. Just today, I've seen two mosquitos on me. Neither one of them took a bite because I didn't let them."