West Nile Virus Detected in Utah Horses and Delaware Chickens

The Utah Department of Agriculture confirmed that two horses in the state tested positive for West Nile virus. A 4‑year‑old gelding in Weber County showed symptoms in mid‑July and has recovered, while a second horse in Box Elder County also tested positive.

In Delaware, the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control reported its first West Nile virus detection of 2026 in a sentinel chicken flock in eastern Kent County, confirmed by the state health laboratory on July 31. No human cases have been reported this year, but officials warned residents to remain vigilant and urged vaccination for horses and continued mosquito control measures.

Both incidents highlight ongoing mosquito‑borne disease surveillance in the United States and the importance of vaccination and vector control to protect animals and people.