INDIANAPOLIS — State health officials say a human case of West Nile virus has been reported in Vanderburgh County.
In addition to the human case, samples of mosquitoes in 27 Indiana counties, including Bartholomew County, have tested positive for West Nile virus.
“This is the time of year when people are at greatest risk for West Nile virus disease,” said State Health Commissioner Kris Box. “All Hoosiers should take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. You can also reduce the risk for yourself and your neighbors by eliminating mosquito breeding grounds from your property.”
State health officials recommend the following preventive measures:
- Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are active (especially late afternoon, dusk to dawn and early morning)
- Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on clothes and exposed skin
- Cover exposed skin by wearing a hat, long sleeves and long pants in places where mosquitoes are especially active, such as wooded areas
- Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of the home
Even a container as small as a bottle cap can become a mosquito breeding ground, so residents should take the following steps to eliminate potential breeding grounds:
- Discard old tires, tin cans, ceramic pots or other containers that can hold water
- Repair failed septic systems
- Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers left outdoors
- Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed
- Clean clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up the drains
- Frequently replace the water in pet bowls
- Flush ornamental fountains and birdbaths periodically
- Aerate ornamental pools, or stock them with predatory fish
West Nile virus can cause West Nile fever, a mild form of the illness, which can result in fever, headache, body aches, swollen lymph glands or a rash. Some people will develop a more severe form of the disease affecting the nervous system, including inflammation in the brain and spinal cord, muscle paralysis or even death.
For more on the state’s mosquito surveillance program, visit ttps://gis.in.gov/apps/ISDH/Arbo/. To learn more about West Nile virus, visit the ISDH website a https://www.in.gov/isdh/23592.htm.
