What You Need To Know: West Nile Virus In Cascade County

• Most people infected experience little or no symptoms
• 1 in 5 will experience minor symptoms
• 1 in 150 will become seriously ill

West Nile Virus Found In Cascade County

The Cascade County Weed and Mosquito Division has reported finding West Nile Virus in Cascade County. West Nile Virus was discovered about 2 1/2 miles south west of Vaughan.

The samples were tested in Helena at the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services on July 25, 2025.

The state will treat the area for West Nile Virus then continue to watch the situation.

What Are The Symptoms Of West Nile Virus?

• Rash
• Headache
• High fever
• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Muscle weakness
• Tremors
• Convulsions
• Paralysis
• Coma

Symptoms appear from 3 days to 2 weeks after exposure. If you find yourself or someone you know with these symptoms, go to your doctor as soon as possible.

Around 20 percent of infected people can come down with a more mild illness called West Nile Fever. West Nile Fever usually just runs its course, but has been known to result in encephalitis or meningitis which are serious infections of the brain.

Is There A Vaccine For West Nile Virus?

There is no vaccine for humans. There is a vaccine, but it's only for horses, given in the spring every year.

How Can You Protect Yourself From West Nile Virus?

Use the 5 Ds to protect you and your family from West Nile and mosquitoes in general.

The 5 Ds of mosquito bite prevention are:

• Defend: a mosquito repellant with an active ingredient like deet
• Dusk and Dawn: Try to stay indoors at this time as mosquitos are most active then
• Drain standing water: Drain any standing water once a week
• Dress correctly: Long sleeves, long pants and socks

Sources: KRTV, South Walton Mosquito District

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