So. Indiana County Reports First Confirmation of West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus has been detected in one Southern Indiana County. Here is everything you need to know to protect yourself and your family.

West Nile First Appeared in the US in 1999

West Nile virus emerged in the United States in 1999 and quickly spread across the country. Since then, it has been something most of us have taken efforts to prevent every year as the disease is easily transmitted by mosquitoes.

How West Nile is Transmitted

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of infected Culex species mosquitoes. Symptoms typically appear anywhere from three to fourteen days after a mosquito bite.

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Symptoms of West Nile

Mild cases of West Nile infections may cause a slight fever or headache, while severe cases manifest with high fever, body aches, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, or death. While most infected individuals do not show symptoms, severe cases can lead to meningitis, encephalitis, or even death. People over 60 and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.

West Nile Virus Confirmed in Warrick County

In a press release dated September 10, 2024, and shared by the Warrick County Emergency Management Agency, from Warrick County Commissioners share the details about the first confirmation of West Nile Virus in mosquitos in Warrick County, Indiana.

They say the virus was found through "water pool testing." This is the first time the virus has been detected in the county.

Officials Expect West Nile Virus to Become More Prevalent

In the press release, Warrick County Commissioners share that the Warrick County Health Department is expecting the virus to become more widespread throughout the county as mosquito season progresses. They also note that the virus has been found in other Indiana counties as well.

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Preventing Mosquitoes in Your Yard and at Home

The Indiana Department of Health says they expect to see the cases of West Nile Virus rise across the state and recommend residents take precautions to stay safe and healthy.

Ensure your windows and doors have screens and patch or repair any holes they may have
Empty standing water from any type of containers like trashcans, tires, pool, bird baths, etc, and remove these containers when and where you can, or ensure water does not pool in them.
Keep your grass mowed, your bushes trimmed, and your gutters cleaned out.

Preventing Mosquito Bites

To prevent West Nile encephalitis and other mosquito-borne illnesses, it is crucial to reduce mosquito populations and take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites. The Indiana Department of Health advises that Hoosiers use a repellent and wear protective clothing.

Use insect repellent. Apply EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone according to the label instructions. Wear protective clothing. Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants. Consider treating clothing and gear with a permethrin product (note: permethrin products should not be applied directly to the skin).

Indiana Residents can view the state's Mosquito-Borne Activity Dashboard to learn more.

[Source: Warrick County Emergency Management Agency; Indiana Department of Health]

The Colors and Scents Mosquitos Love and Hate

Avoid being eaten alive by mosquitos this summer by giving yourself a fighting chance with these DIY repellents you can use today. Please scroll through the gallery below to find out what colors attract these little blood-suckers, which colors they ignore, and what kinds of scents will keep them away all day.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams