Mosquitoes with West Nile virus have been found in Monroe County, according to a Monroe County Health Department press release.
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes that have bitten an infected bird. According to the release, one sample from one pool of mosquitoes collected by the Indiana Department of Health tested positive for the disease.
According to the World Health Organization, West Nile virus is asymptomatic in 80% of infected people. The remaining 20% of people will develop a fever, headache, tiredness, body aches, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes and/or swollen lymph glands.
The symptoms usually lasts three to 14 days, and no vaccine is available.
One in 150 people will develop a serious, potentially fatal, illness. Those who are immunocompromised or over the age of 50 are especially at risk.
The Monroe County Health Department recommends preventing mosquito breeding and activity. This includes draining standing water outside and emptying water from dishes, birdbaths, flowerpots, buckets, barrels, boats and swimming pool covers.
Residents should also wear long-sleeved shirts, pants and hats to protect against mosquito bites and apply insect repellent regularly.
Mosquitoes survive best at temperatures between 50-95 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity of 42% or more, according to research from the National Institutes of Health.
More information about mosquito-borne diseases is available on the Indiana Department of Health’s website.
