July 17, 2015 DHH Asks Residents to Take Precautions Against MosquitoesHealth Department Confirms Three New Cases of West Nile

- The Louisiana Department of Health (DHH) has confirmed three new cases of West Nile virus this week, the first cases of 2015. This week's new infections include two cases of neuroinvasive disease, one in LDH Region 2 and one in Region 6. The third case, also in Region 6 was asymptomatic.

About 90 percent of all West Nile virus cases are asymptomatic, while about 10 percent will develop West Nile fever. Only a very small number of infected individuals will show the serious symptoms associated with the neuroinvasive disease. Residents who are at least 65 years old are at higher risk for complications, but everyone is at risk for infection.

"There is an opportunity for you to get bitten every time you step outside, whether you're taking a quick walk to the mailbox or spending hours at the ball park," said State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry. "You need to take the proper steps to protect yourself and your home from mosquitoes every time you go outdoors."

Last year, Louisiana saw 61 cases of West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease in the state. LDH has been tracking West Nile Virus for more than a decade, and statistics about its occurrence in Louisiana can be found online at www.dhh.louisiana.gov/fightthebite.

Protecting Yourself

Protecting Your Home

Travel Precautions

Anyone traveling abroad should also take these same precautions to protect themselves from mosquitoes in other countries. Mosquitoes in other parts of the world, including the Caribbean, South America, Asia, Africa and Europe, might infect you with chikungunya or dengue fever. For more information about these diseases, visit the CDC's website by clicking here.

The Louisiana Department of Health strives to protect and promote health statewide and to ensure access to medical, preventive and rehabilitative services for all state citizens. To learn more about LDH, visit www.dhh.louisiana.gov. For up-to-date health information, news and emergency updates, follow LDH's Twitter account and Facebook.

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Surgeon General Ralph L. Abraham, M.D.

Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein

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