August 20, 2015 State Health Department Reports 20 West Nile Cases to Date This YearDHH officials promote simple steps residents can take to protect themselves

- The Louisiana Department of Health (DHH) confirmed Wednesday a total of 20 cases of West Nile virus so far this summer. Of the cases we have seen this year, 10 have been neuroinvasive disease (NID), two have been West Nile fever and eight have been asymptomatic.

"It's critical for adults and children to wear mosquito repellent at all times while outdoors," said State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry. "Whether your children are playing sports, your family is outside grilling or you're doing yard work, be sure to protect yourself and your family."

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 NID. Residents who are at least 65 years old are at higher risk for complications, but everyone is at risk for infection.

Protecting Yourself

Protecting Your Home

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.

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 DHH's Twitter account and Facebook.

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Surgeon General Ralph L. Abraham, M.D.

Interim Secretary Drew Maranto

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