Idaho Confirms 1st West Nile Meningitis Case as Boise Wastewater Shows High COVID Levels
Updated
Updated · Boise State Public Radio · Aug 19
Idaho Confirms 1st West Nile Meningitis Case as Boise Wastewater Shows High COVID Levels
1 articles · Updated · Boise State Public Radio · Aug 19
Summary
Idaho recorded its first confirmed West Nile virus meningitis case of 2026, while health officials said West Nile has already been found in mosquitoes in several counties.
Boise wastewater testing also showed high levels of COVID-19 just as students return to school, signaling elevated virus circulation at the start of the academic year.
U.S. kindergarten vaccine exemptions have reached a record high as childhood vaccination rates continue to fall, adding to public health concerns discussed this week.
Dr. David Pate, former CEO of St. Luke's Health System, framed the developments as part of a broader cluster of infectious-disease risks facing Idaho and the nation.