Tuscarawas County Reports First La Crosse-Positive Mosquito Sample of the Year
DOVER (WJER) (Aug. 27. 2026) – The Tuscarawas County Health Department says a mosquito sample collected in Fairfield Township has tested positive for La Crosse virus—the first confirmed La Crosse-positive mosquito sample in the county this year.
Health officials also report a third mosquito sample testing positive for West Nile virus.
No human cases have been reported.
The La Crosse-positive sample was collected July 30 near Ault Road and Tabor Ridge Road Northeast. The West Nile-positive sample was collected the same day near State Route 212 in the Somerdale area.
The health department plans mosquito spraying Saturday, from 8 to 11 p.m. in two-mile areas around both locations. Spraying will be postponed if weather conditions are unfavorable.
Residents are urged to use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants when practical, and eliminate standing water around their homes.
Health Commissioner Katie Seward says there is no need for alarm, but the positive samples are a reminder that mosquito-borne illnesses remain a concern during the summer.
Both La Crosse virus and West Nile virus are spread through mosquito bites. Many people do not develop symptoms, but illness can include fever, headache, nausea, body aches, vomiting, or rash. Severe illness is rare but can occur, especially in children with La Crosse virus and older adults or people with certain medical conditions with West Nile virus.