West Nile cases surge in 2026 as CDC issues holiday advisory

The CDC issued a July 4 holiday advisory warning of a two-decade high in West Nile virus cases, with 48 cases reported through June 2026, including 38 severe neuroinvasive cases across 23 states. The agency recommends using EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding outdoor activity during dusk and dawn to prevent mosquito bites.