The Louisiana Department of Health has reported the state’s first positive case of West Nile Virus in a human this year. State epidemiologist Theresa Sokol says the risk for West Nile is higher than normal, with 175 mosquito pools indicating the presence of the virus, compared to 13 a year ago, so preventative measures are a must.
“We are seeing much higher numbers, much earlier in the year,” said Sokol. “Now is definitely the time to start preventing mosquito bites.”
LDH advises doing what you can around your home to keep it mosquito-proof by eliminating standing water, keeping your gutters clean, changing the water in birdbaths regularly, and keeping your swimming pool properly cleaned. And when you are outside…
“You want to use an EPA-registered insect repellent,” she said. “And when possible, wear long sleeves and long pants to protect even further.”
Sokol says those who are over the age of 60 and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions carry the highest amount of risk for developing the more severe infection, West Nile Encephalitis, which can result in hospitalization and the potential for death or severe brain damage.
“You look at people who are 60 years of age and older; about one in 50 people who are infected will develop neuroinvasive disease,” Sokol said. “So really this is a population that is at significantly increased risk.”
For more information on West Nile and tips on how to protect yourself and your home, visit ldh.la.gov.
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