ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — A person has died of West Nile virus in Georgia, according to the state’s Department of Public Health (DPH).

So far, the department has confirmed eight human cases of the virus this year — but that number is expected to rise. The cases come as mosquitoes have tested positive for the disease in multiple traps in Fulton, DeKalb and Chatham counties.

Most people who are infected with West Nile virus won’t have symptoms. But others could see symptoms that develop within two and six days of the mosquito bite, including:

• Fever
• Headache
• Body aches
• Joint pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash

Mosquito season lasts through October, the department said. Seniors, immunocompromised people or those with other underlying medical conditions could be at greater risk for complications, including an infection of the central nervous system.

The DPH gives the following tips on how to help protect yourself:

• Wear EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, IR 3535 or lemon eucalyptus oil.
• Wear light-colored clothing with loose-fitting long sleeves, pants and socks.
• Drain outdoor containers holding standing water, such as flower pots, planters, toys, buckets and more.
• Make sure your doors, windows and screens are repaired to best keep mosquitoes out.

Click here to learn more about West Nile virus from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

PREVIOUS COVERAGE:

2 more mosquito traps test positive for West Nile virus in DeKalb County

Mosquito trap in Chastain Park tests positive for West Nile virus, conservancy says

West Nile virus detected at 2 Roswell parks

Mosquito trap at South Fulton park tests positive for West Nile virus

4 more mosquito traps test positive for West Nile virus in DeKalb County, health officials say

Copyright 2026 WANF. All rights reserved.