West Nile Virus Is Surging in Missouri — Here’s How STL Pest Control Can Help St. Louis Families
Updated: October 10, 2025 • STL Pest Control
What’s Going On in St. Louis Right Now?
According to a 5 On Your Side report, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) confirmed
that as of October 4, 2025, West Nile Virus (WNV) has killed 3 Missourians and hospitalized 15, with additional cases under investigation.
St. Louis City and St. Louis County each reported multiple probable cases, signaling higher activity than recent years.
DHSS updates statewide WNV surveillance weekly during the season (April–October). You can view the latest human, animal, and mosquito testing on the
Missouri DHSS West Nile “Data & Statistical Reports” page.
Why Prevention Matters
The CDC notes most WNV infections are mild or asymptomatic, but about 1 in 5 people may develop symptoms such as fever,
headache, and body aches. In rare cases—especially among older adults or people with weakened immune systems—the illness can become severe and affect the nervous system.
There’s no human vaccine and no specific antiviral treatment for WNV, so reducing mosquito exposure is critical.
Why St. Louis Sees Spikes
Warm, humid weather and abundant standing water (think clogged gutters, birdbaths, planters, and low spots in lawns) make ideal breeding sites for the
Culex mosquitoes that spread West Nile Virus. Urban landscaping and shaded areas also give adult mosquitoes daytime resting spots, allowing populations to build quickly without proactive control.
How STL Pest Control Protects Your Home
We’ve served St. Louis since 1989, and our mosquito programs are designed for local conditions. Our licensed technicians focus on
source reduction (stopping breeding) and targeted treatments to knock down adults where they harbor.
Our Mosquito Service Includes:
- Property Inspection & Standing Water Management — We identify and address breeding sites (gutters, planters, toys, drains, etc.).
- Targeted Yard Applications — Treatments to foliage, shady/resting areas, and mosquito harborage zones around your home.
- Seasonal Protection Plans — Regular service during peak months for consistent reduction.
- Family- & Pet-Conscious Approach — We use professional, targeted methods to minimize non-target impact.
Ready to reduce mosquitoes around your home? Request a mosquito inspection or call 314-833-6222.
Simple Steps You Can Take Today
- Dump standing water weekly (saucers, buckets, toys, tires). Scrub birdbaths before refilling.
- Fix screens on doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out.
- Use EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 when outdoors—especially at dawn and dusk (CDC guidance).
- Trim vegetation and thin dense shrubs where adults rest during the day.
- Check gutters and drains for blockages after storms.
Local Data & Trusted Resources
- Missouri DHSS: West Nile Data & Statistical Reports — updated weekly in season.
- 5 On Your Side: Missouri WNV update — current local reporting on cases and hospitalizations.
- CDC: West Nile Virus — prevention tips, symptoms, and national data.
Serving St. Louis Since 1989
STL Pest Control is locally owned and operated. From mosquitoes to termites and wildlife, we provide comprehensive pest solutions built for St. Louis homes and businesses.
If you’re noticing more mosquitoes—or want to stay ahead of West Nile risks—schedule service today.
West Nile Virus: Frequently Asked Questions
How do people get West Nile Virus?
Most infections occur from the bite of an infected mosquito. See CDC’s overview for details on transmission and prevention.
What are the symptoms?
Many have no symptoms; some develop fever, headache, or body aches. Severe cases can affect the nervous system. Seek medical care if you have concerns.
What’s the best way to prevent it?
Reduce mosquito exposure: remove standing water, repair screens, use repellents, and consider professional yard treatments.