On June 25th, Jamestown Canyon virus (JVC) was detected in Nebraska for the first time in a mosquito pool at Cunningham Lake in Douglas County. There are no confirmed human cases. The virus can spread to humans by infected mosquitoes. JVC can cause severe disease, and it is not treatable. People are encouraged to prevent mosquito bites and treat symptoms like fever, headache, and fatigue. Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen after a mosquito bite.

The Nebraska Public Health Lab (NPHL) has confirmed the presence of the Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) in the state for the first time. The virus was detected in a mosquito pool collected at Cunningham Lake in Douglas County.

JCV is a virus transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Humans cannot spread JCV to others or mosquitoes, and there have been no confirmed human cases this year in the U.S.

While rare, JCV can cause a range of symptoms from mild flu-like illness to severe neurological conditions. There is currently no specific treatment for JCV, and prevention is key.

The Health Department recommends using bug spray, wearing long sleeves and pants, and ensuring you have bug screens on your windows, as precautions.

Monitor the Douglas County Health Department website updates or call 402.444.3400 for the latest information. Consult with your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, or muscle aches. You can also share the resources below to help Omaha residents stay protected from JCV infection.

Nebraska didn't start testing for JCV until this June so it may have been around longer. The Health Department will increase testing in both mosquitoes and humans.