DAVIESS COUNTY — The Daviess County Health Department is urging residents to take extra precautions after two mosquito samples collected in the area tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV).
The positive samples were gathered around August 28 during routine environmental surveillance. State public health officials note that mosquito-borne virus activity typically peaks in late summer, with elevated risks continuing until the season’s first hard freeze.
The virus is primarily spread to humans through the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes, which pick up the virus after feeding on infected birds. This specific species is most active between dusk and 1:00 a.m., as well as around dawn.
Symptoms and Risks
- Most Cases Are Mild or Asymptomatic: Roughly 80% of individuals infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms at all.
- Mild Symptoms: About 20% of infected individuals develop mild, flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or a skin rash.
- Severe Complications: Fewer than 1% of cases lead to severe neurological conditions, such as encephalitis or meningitis, which affect the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms of severe illness include high fever, neck stiffness, confusion, tremors, or muscle paralysis.
- High-Risk Groups: Adults over the age of 60 and individuals with compromised immune systems face a significantly higher risk of severe illness.
Recommended Prevention Steps
Health officials advise residents to take the following preventative measures to lower the risk of mosquito bites and reduce mosquito breeding habitats around homes:
- Use Repellent: Apply EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus when spending time outdoors.
- Dress Defensively: Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants, particularly during peak mosquito feeding hours between dusk and dawn.
- Eliminate Standing Water: Inspect properties weekly and dump standing water from containers such as flowerpot saucers, buckets, old tires, birdbaths, and clogged rain gutters where mosquitoes lay eggs.
- Secure Home Openings: Ensure window and door screens are in good repair to keep insects out of living spaces.
Residents who suspect they may have contracted West Nile virus and are experiencing severe symptoms should consult a healthcare provider immediately.
