Latest West Nile Virus samples detected in Zelienople, Cranberry Township
The number of positive West Nile virus samples in Butler County so far in 2026 has risen to 11 after additional mosquito samples from both Zelienople and Cranberry Township tested positive for the virus, the Mercer County Conservation District reported Thursday, Sept. 10.
The Mercer County Conservation District oversees the mosquito-borne disease control program for Butler County, as well as Mercer and Crawford counties.
According to the agency, no human cases of the virus have been reported in Butler County. However, the agency recommends that residents in Cranberry Township, Zelienople, and the surrounding areas take steps to reduce the risk of mosquito bites by applying insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and making sure their windows and doors are bug-tight.
“Additional monitoring will be done in the area where these mosquito samples were collected, and appropriate control work will be conducted, depending on the number and types of mosquitoes that are found,” a news release from the district said.
While 80% of humans infected with West Nile virus exhibit no symptoms, approximately 1 in 150 can develop severe illness, with symptoms such as blindness, coma, convulsions, high fever, numbness, and paralysis.
