First human case of West Nile Virus reported for 2013 season

The first human case of West Nile virus in Indiana has been
reported in Ripley County, State health officials announced today. Hoosiers
are encouraged to take steps to protect themselves from West Nile virus and
other mosquito-borne diseases.
 
In addition to the human case, mosquito groups in nine counties have now
tested positive for the virus. Those counties include: Adams, Allen,
Clinton, Grant, Hamilton, Jefferson, Starke, Vanderburgh and Vigo. The
Indiana State Department of Health has collected and tested nearly 64,000
mosquitoes from 85 counties for West Nile virus and Saint Louis
encephalitis. There have been no positive findings for Saint Louis
encephalitis at this time.
 
"It is the time of the year when Hoosiers are at risk of getting West Nile
virus and should take precautions against getting bitten by mosquitoes,"
said Jennifer House, Director of Zoonotic & Veterinary Epidemiology at the
Indiana State Department of Health. "Last year there were 77 cases in
Indiana."
 
State health officials recommend the following preventative measures:
·      Avoid places where mosquitoes are biting;
·      Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin or oil of lemon
eucalyptus to clothes and exposed skin;
·      Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out
of the home; and,
·      When possible, wear pants and long sleeves, especially if walking in
wooded or marshy areas.
 
West Nile virus can cause West Nile fever, a mild form of the illness, which
can include fever, headache, body aches, swollen lymph glands or a rash.
Some individuals will develop a more severe form of the disease with
encephalitis or meningitis and other severe syndromes, including flaccid
muscle paralysis.
 
To reduce potential mosquito breeding grounds:
·      Discard old tires, tin cans, ceramic pots or other containers that
can hold water; 
·      Repair failed septic systems;
·      Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers left outdoors;
·      Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed;
·      Clean clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up
the drains; 
·      Frequently replace the water in pet bowls;
·      Flush ornamental fountains and birdbaths periodically; and,
·      Aerate ornamental pools, or stock them with predatory fish.
 
Individuals who think they may have West Nile virus should see their health
care provider. 
 
For more information about mosquito safety, please visit the Indiana State
Department of Health¹s website at www.StateHealth.IN.gov
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