The Indiana State Department of Health has detected mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus in the county through routine trapping and testing.
West Nile virus can be transmitted to humans by the bite of the Culex mosquito. Most people infected do not exhibit symptoms, but 20% of infections cause symptoms, including fever and headache. Severe symptoms, such as encephalitis and meningitis, are experienced by 1% of those infected. Prevention of West Nile Virus involves controlling mosquito populations and taking personal measures to limit the risk of mosquito bites. It is the most common mosquito-transmitted infection in the United States. A human case of West Nile has not been reported in Montgomery County since 2012.
The Indiana State Department of Health regularly sets mosquito traps for disease surveillance. The virus was found in mosquitoes from traps set on Aug. 6.
Mosquito populations can be controlled by reducing their breeding areas with standing water. Additionally, the health department has a vector control program that uses adulticide fogging and applies larvicide to standing water in public places when conditions are safe.Focusing on reducing sources of standing water around the home can help decrease the exposure to mosquitoes.
Wet gutters are a common mosquito breeding site. Gutters should be cleaned, wading pool and bird bath water changed at least weekly and other outdoor items like tires, buckets, planters and toys should be addressed to limit water collection. Rain barrels and other collections of water should be sealed or covered with wire screens small enough to prevent the entry of adult mosquitoes.
To protect yourself from mosquitoes, it’s important to wear long pants, long sleeves, socks and shoes when you’re outdoors. It’s also recommended to use insect repellents. Try to limit your outdoor activities during the time when mosquitoes are most active, which is from dusk to dawn. Keep in mind that there is currently no vaccination for West Nile virus, and specific treatment is not available. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. Diagnosis is based on signs, symptoms, and lab testing, so if you feel unwell, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider. Treatment mainly aims to alleviate symptoms while the virus runs its course. It’s also important to note that West Nile virus is not transmitted from person to person.
More information can be found at the Indiana Department of Health in.gov/health or at the West Nile Virus page at CDC.gov.
