Calcasieu Parish Mosquito Control Receives Confirmation of West Nile Virus in Area Mosquito Pool Test

Published August 24, 2019

From the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury – On August 23, 2019, Calcasieu Parish Mosquito Control received confirmation from the state that one of the parish’s mosquito pools – collections of mosquitoes from different areas in the parish – have tested positive for the West Nile Virus.

The West Nile Virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause inflammation of the brain. Most people infected with WNV do not feel sick, but about one in five people who are infected develop a fever and flu-like symptoms. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious – sometimes fatal – illness.

“Historically, WNV activity peaks during the months of July and August,” said Scott Harrington, Calcasieu Parish Mosquito Control Manager. “Additionally, to date, there have been seven human cases in the state, which is down from the 53 human cases we had at this time last year.”

A reminder to all residents to always use mosquito repellent and if possible, wear long sleeves and pants when going outdoors – especially at dawn and at dusk. Also, mosquitoes typically lay their eggs in water, so make sure to dispose of or drain any water-holding items around your home.

Mosquito Control reminds residents to wear repellent at all times when outdoors.

For information about mosquito control in Calcasieu Parish visit – Mosquito Spray Information and Schedule Map for Calcasieu Parish

For more on West Nile activity, visit – www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html .