What was the record number of West Nile virus cases in the Twin Cities last year?

The Twin Cities recorded a record 47 human cases of West Nile virus last year.

Did invasive mosquitoes appear in the Twin Cities?

Yes, the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito species was detected for the first time, but officials believe it was successfully eradicated.

What caused the increase in cattail mosquitoes?

Heavy rains in 2024 led to a boom in cattail mosquito populations, reaching the highest numbers seen since 2020.

Home / Environment / Twin Cities West Nile Cases Hit Record High

Twin Cities West Nile Cases Hit Record High

27 Feb

•

Summary

Twin Cities recorded 47 West Nile cases, a new high, last year.
Invasive Aedes aegypti mosquitoes appeared but were eradicated.
Cattail mosquito populations boomed due to heavy rains in 2024.

Twin Cities West Nile Cases Hit Record High

Last year marked an unprecedented surge in West Nile virus cases within the Twin Cities, with 47 human infections reported, significantly surpassing the previous record of 28. This outbreak was driven by a combination of factors, including a high population of the principal mosquito species that carries the disease and increased infection rates in initial mosquito samples.

The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District also identified the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito species in the Twin Cities for the first time. While initially considered a concerning development, officials now believe they have successfully eliminated this species from the area and will continue surveillance in 2026.