August 22, 2018 Louisiana has country’s highest rates of West Nile Virus

- The Louisiana Department of Health is urging the state’s residents to take precautions to guard against West Nile Virus after Louisiana has reported the most cases of the virus in the country.

According to the most recent surveillance report, for the week ending on August 11, 2018, Louisiana has had 53 total human cases. The state has also reported two deaths.*

Of the 53 human cases, 9 were asymptomatic, 13 developed West Nile Fever and 31 developed neuroinvasive disease. In comparison, the Department reported 21 West Nile virus cases at this time last year


West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease is the most serious type of illness associated with the virus. It infects the brain and spinal cord. Neuroinvasive disease can lead to death, paralysis and brain damage.

West Nile Fever is a milder viral infection in which people experience flu-like symptoms.

The majority of people who contract West Nile will be asymptomatic, which means they show no symptoms. These cases are typically detected through blood donations or in the course of other routine medical tests. Note: Nine blood donors have tested positive for WNV.

Each week, the Department will update and post the Arboviral Report with more detailed information about West Nile virus infections in Louisiana. The reports are available here.

Protect Yourself for Mosquitos

If you will be outside, you should wear a mosquito repellent containing DEET. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that repellents should contain no more than 30% DEET when used on children. Insect repellents also are not recommended for children younger than two months. CDC recommends that you always follow the recommendations appearing on the product label when using repellent.

 

Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Grounds

Reduce the mosquito population by eliminating standing water around your home, which is where mosquitoes breed.

*Explanation of Deaths: Because, the reporting of deaths caused by West Nile virus is not mandated by state law, so there is inconsistently in reporting. Deaths are limited to being included in this report to only those deaths occurring within two weeks for onset. For the preservation of confidentiality, the State does not report details about West Nile deaths (such as date, parish, gender and age).

Surgeon General Ralph L. Abraham, M.D.

Interim Secretary Drew Maranto

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