Rhode Island Confirms First Human West Nile Virus Case of 2026

The Rhode Island Department of Health and Department of Environmental Management have reported the state's first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) for 2026. A Washington County resident in their 60s, who likely contracted the virus while traveling, is recovering in the hospital. The statewide WNV risk remains low, but officials advise precautions until a hard frost.