Maryland’s first human case of West Nile virus confirmed for 2025

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Source: https://www.dcnewsnow.com/news/local...rmed-for-2025/

Maryland’s first human case of West Nile virus confirmed for 2025
by: Jenny Gable, Kaitlyn Dillon
Posted: Aug 23, 2025 / 05:00 PM EDT
Updated: Aug 23, 2025 / 05:00 PM EDT


MARYLAND (DC News Now) — The Maryland Department of Health has confirmed the state’s first human case of West Nile virus for 2025 after a Central Maryland resident tested positive for the illness.

The patient, who is an adult, is recovering from the infection, officials said in their Friday announcement. The first confirmed case came about a month after a mosquito in the Bowie area tested positive for the virus, prompting crews to spray several area neighborhoods with insecticide...

[Commonground]

August 22, 2025
Maryland Department of Health announces first human case of West Nile virus for 2025


Maryland residents reminded to take basic steps to reduce risk of infection from mosquitoes

Baltimore, MD – The Maryland Department of Health today announced that an adult living in Central Maryland has tested positive for West Nile virus – the first confirmed human case in Maryland this year. The patient is recovering from the infection.


West Nile is transmitted to humans via mosquitoes infected by feeding on birds that have the virus. In rare instances, the virus may be spread from person to person through organ donation, blood transfusion, breastfeeding or from a pregnant mother to fetus.


The disease affects the nervous system, and up to 80% of people who are infected will not display any signs of illness. However, those who have underlying health conditions could become seriously ill.


“We are in the season when the West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne viruses can spread in Maryland,” said Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services Dr. Meg Sullivan. “We urge people to be vigilant and take steps to avoid infection, such as eliminating standing pools of water where mosquitoes can breed."
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Although birds are not routinely tested for West Nile virus in Maryland, sick or injured birds can be reported to an appropriate local wildlife rehabilitator. Residents can call 1-877-463-6497 for a list of licensed rehabilitators or visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife.


For more information on West Nile virus, including data and educational materials, visit the Center for Zoonotic and Vectorborne Diseases and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

https://health.maryland.gov/newsroom/Pages/MDH-announces-first-human-case-of-West-Nile-virus-for-2025.aspx