Guilford health officials urge mosquito precautions as summer activity increases

Guilford County public health officials are reminding residents to reduce mosquito exposure as warmer-weather activity increases, with a focus on preventing West Nile virus infection.

The county says West Nile virus is carried by wild birds and can reach people through the bite of an infected mosquito; it does not spread from person to person. Most infected people have no symptoms, but the health department says about one in five develop fever and related symptoms, while about one in 150 develop serious neurologic illness. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems face higher risk of severe illness.

Residents can lower exposure by using an EPA-registered repellent according to its label, especially from dusk to dawn, and by emptying containers that hold rainwater. Health officials also recommend keeping gutters clean, covering rain barrels, treating standing water with EPA-approved larvicides when appropriate, and maintaining tight-fitting window and door screens.

Anyone who becomes ill and suspects West Nile infection should contact a health-care provider. The county points residents to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and CDC for additional information.

Source: Reporting based on Guilford County Public Health's Aug. 10, 2026 notice, official health guidance.