BLOOMINGTON— The Monroe County Health Department has confirmed that a pool of mosquitoes in the county has tested positive for West Nile Virus, prompting a public health alert. This is the first positive test in the county this season.
A single pool, which can contain up to 100 mosquitoes, was found to be carrying the virus. While most people infected with West Nile Virus experience no symptoms or only mild ones, such as a fever, headache, body aches, or a rash, the disease can be severe and even fatal for a small percentage of individuals.
“About 1 in 150 individuals who are infected will have a more severe form of the disease, with symptoms such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the tissues that cover the brain and spinal cord),” the health department stated in a press release.
As there is currently no specific treatment or human vaccine for West Nile Virus, residents are advised to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and to reduce mosquito populations around their homes.
Michael Kuzemka, the Environmental Health Director for Monroe County, stressed the importance of eliminating standing water. “Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk,” he said. “Any size container holding water, even the size of a bottle cap, could be a breeding area for mosquitoes on your property.”
The health department recommends several measures to prevent mosquito breeding:
- Drill holes in the bottom of outdoor recycling containers.
- Clean out rain gutters regularly.
- Flush bird baths and fountains frequently.
- Aerate pools or add predatory fish.
- Keep yards mowed to reduce mosquito habitats.
According to the Indiana Department of Health, 60 counties statewide have now reported West Nile Virus-positive mosquito pools. Hamilton County has reported the highest number with 71. Additionally, two human cases of the virus have been confirmed in Dekalb and Vanderburgh counties.
Anyone who experiences severe symptoms, including a high fever, stiff neck, severe headache, muscle weakness, or confusion, should seek immediate medical attention.
