Nashville Detects West Nile in Mosquitoes, Prompting Public Health Precautions

Nashville health officials confirmed West Nile virus in a local mosquito pool near Cass Street in North Nashville, marking the city's first 2026 detection and an early-season warning. The Metro Public Health Department is ramping up mosquito trapping, distributing educational materials, and reducing breeding sites by removing standing water and applying larvicide where needed, while noting they do not spray insecticide to kill adult mosquitoes. Residents are advised to use EPA-approved repellents, wear protective clothing, and ensure screens are intact, as West Nile virus remains the leading US mosquito-borne disease and poses higher risk to older adults and immunocompromised individuals.