West Nile Virus Detected in Southern Indiana Mosquitoes: What You Need to Know
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause mild to severe symptoms in humans, ranging from fever and headache to brain inflammation and paralysis.
Transmission
WNV is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, which acquires the virus by feeding on infected birds.
Current Situation in Southern Indiana
The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has recently detected WNV in mosquito samples collected in southern Indiana counties.
Counties Affected
The affected counties include:
*- Clark
- Crawford
- Dubois
- Harrison
- Perry
- Pike
- Posey
- Spencer
- Vanderburgh
- Warrick
Symptoms and Prevention
Symptoms
Most people infected with WNV do not develop symptoms. However, some may experience mild to severe symptoms, including:
*- Fever
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Rash
- In severe cases: seizures, brain inflammation, paralysis
Prevention
There is no specific treatment for WNV, so prevention is crucial. Here are some recommended measures:
*- Use mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors during mosquito season.
- Eliminate standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed.
- Install or repair window screens.
- Consider using mosquito traps or larvicides to reduce mosquito populations.
What to Do If You Suspect You Have WNV
If you develop symptoms consistent with WNV, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes.
Additional Information
For more information on West Nile Virus, visit the following resources:
* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) * Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH)
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