JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ky. —
Mosquitos infected with West Nile virus were found in three neighborhoods in Jefferson County, the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness announced Monday.
The mosquitos were found in surveillance traps by LMPHW in the neighborhoods of Park DuValle, California and Old Louisville. So far, there are no reports of people in Louisville being infected with West Nile virus.
Mosquito fogging will take place in ZIP codes 40208, 40210 and 40211 this week to help reduce the mosquito population and prevent infection.
“This is about the time of year we typically see mosquitoes test positive for West Nile,” Louisville’s Interim Chief Health Strategist Connie Mendel, said. “No matter what ZIP code you live in, please take precautions to avoid being bitten.”
Although there are no vaccines or medicines to prevent the virus, the best way to prevent it is by protecting oneself from mosquito bites. The Centers for Disease Control says the best ways to prevent bites include using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing and taking steps to control mosquitos indoors and out.
Another way to prevent West Nile from spreading is to prevent mosquito breeding grounds. The CDC suggests installing or repairing screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitos outside and emptying standing water where mosquitos can lay eggs from around one’s property. Standing water sources typically include gutters, pool covers, plant pots, discarded tires, birdbaths and pet water dishes, among other things.
The incubation period for West Nile is typically 2-14 days but can be longer in some cases. Symptoms of the virus include headache, weakness, myalgia or arthralgia. In most cases, those infected with the virus show no symptoms or mild symptoms, but less than 1% of infected people develop more drastic symptoms, which are meningitis, encephalitis or acute flaccid myelitis, according to the CDC.
To check if your area will be fogged visit the department’s website or call the mosquito hotline, 502-574-6641. To make a complaint about mosquitos in your neighborhood call Metro311 by dialing 311 or 502-574-5000.
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