West Nile virus was first discovered in New York State in 1999. The virus spread very rapidly and had spread to all states except Alaska, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington by the end of 2003. It is currently found in all 48 contiguous states. West Nile virus was first detected in Chatham County in 2001 and had a dramatic impact on our program and the citizens of Chatham County.

More information about West Nile virus can be found at the following sites:

• Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
• American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA)