Two Cases of West Nile Virus Confirmed in Myrtle Beach

The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed two cases of West Nile virus in Myrtle Beach, prompting local officials to step up mosquito control and public safety measures across the community.

In response to the confirmed cases, the City of Myrtle Beach is expanding its existing mosquito abatement operations. While the city's routine weekly citywide spraying program has been active since May and continues throughout mosquito season, crews are now intensifying aerial spraying to target adult mosquito populations. Municipal workers are also placing larvicide briquettes in standing water to prevent mosquito larvae from developing and are actively assisting state health officials with mosquito trapping for ongoing testing and surveillance.

West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito and is not transmitted from person to person. Health officials note that most people infected with the virus do not develop symptoms. However, about one in five people who become infected will develop an illness within two to 14 days after being bitten. Common symptoms include fever, headache, joint pain, muscle pain, and in some cases, nausea and vomiting. Health authorities emphasize that while symptoms can be uncomfortable, the risk of developing serious illness remains low.

To limit mosquito activity around homes and local businesses, city officials encourage residents to help reduce mosquito populations around their properties. Property owners and tenants should regularly check for and eliminate standing water in flowerpots, outdoor toys, buckets, rain gutters, pet bowls, pool covers, old tires, and any other outdoor containers where mosquitoes can easily lay eggs and breed.

For personal protection, DPH guidelines advise individuals to apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 according to label directions when spending time outdoors. Wearing clothing that reduces exposed skin also helps lower the likelihood of mosquito bites.

Local residents and visitors are advised to limit outdoor exposure during peak mosquito activity, particularly in the early morning. Health officials caution that certain mosquito species also bite during the daytime, especially in shaded or wooded areas. Homeowners should ensure that doors and windows are fitted with tight-fitting screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering living spaces.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and take these simple precautions throughout the remainder of mosquito season. Additional information regarding West Nile virus prevention, symptoms, and state surveillance efforts is available directly on the South Carolina Department of Public Health website at https://dph.sc.gov/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/insects-and-vector-borne-diseases/west-nile-virus.