DRAPER, Utah, July 31, 2025 — The Salt Lake County Health Department confirms mosquitoes in the Draper area have tested positive for West Nile virus.
According to a news release from the City of Draper, the infected mosquitoes were collected from traps near the Jordan River, south of 12300 South. Health officials warn that because mosquitoes are capable of traveling several miles, residents throughout the region—not just in Draper—should take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
“There’s no way to tell which mosquitoes are carrying the virus,” the release stated, “so prevention is key throughout mosquito season, which continues until the first hard freeze.”
The Salt Lake County Health Department offered the following recommendations to reduce the risk of exposure:
- Use an EPA-registered mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, and follow label instructions.
- Wear long sleeves and pants after dusk.
- Drain standing water from items like plant trays, buckets, pet dishes, and old tires.
- Keep roof gutters free of debris.
- Clean and maintain decorative ponds, using mosquito-eating fish or mosquito dunks.
- Repair or replace damaged window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from getting indoors.
- Trim weeds and tall grass where adult mosquitoes may rest during the day.
West Nile virus can cause serious illness in some people, including fever, headaches, body aches, and, in rare cases, neurological symptoms, the news release said. Most infected individuals do not show symptoms.
For more information, residents can visit the Salt Lake County Health Department’s website or contact their local healthcare provider.
