Vanderburgh County has seen an increase of reported West Nile Virus human cases and 1 West Nile Virus related death. Over the past several weeks there have been 9 human cases reported mostly in the northern part of Vanderburgh County.
According to the CDC, based on incidence rates, Vanderburgh County is one of the top 10 counties in the US reporting human cases of the West Nile Virus.
The Vanderburgh County Health Department is advising the public to take precautions against mosquito bites due to the increase in cases of West Nile Virus being contracted. Due to drought-like conditions and warmer weather in September and continuing in October the risk of mosquitoes transmitting the disease will continue until conditions change.
While most people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms or only mild flu-like symptoms, 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. People older than 60 years and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe symptoms. People who think they may have West Nile virus should see their healthcare provider.
The Vanderburgh County Health Department will continue to focus its efforts on habitat elimination, education, and the treatment of stagnant or standing water for mosquito larvae, as these are the most effective forms of mosquito control.
