Iowa health officials confirmed the state’s first human West Nile virus case of 2026 on Wednesday and reminded Iowans to continue taking precautions against mosquito bites as summer winds down. West Nile virus spreads primarily through bites from infected mosquitoes, and the vast majority of people experience no symptoms. In 2025, Iowa reported 57 West Nile cases and three deaths. State Medical Director Dr. Robert Kruse encourages Iowans to continue enjoying the outdoors, but to do so with mosquitoes in mind. For more information on West Nile virus, follow the link included below.