Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana - CPPJ announces that two mosquito pools in Calcasieu Parish tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The Mosquito Control Department of Calcasieu Parish has been informed by the Louisiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory in Baton Rouge that two groups of mosquitoes from different regions within the parish have been found to carry the West Nile Virus.

The West Nile Virus, spread by mosquitoes, can prompt inflammation in the brain. While a majority of those infected with WNV don't exhibit symptoms, approximately one in five people may experience flu-like symptoms and fever. In rare cases, which affect roughly 1 in 150 infected individuals, the virus can lead to a severe, occasionally lethal, sickness.

“Most years we see our first positive pools in July or August. This hot, dry weather has caused mosquitoes and birds to search for water, bringing them into proximity and this increases the likelihood of disease transmission,” said Scott Harrington, Calcasieu Parish Mosquito Control Manager. “The dry conditions can cause a lower mosquito population but an increase in mosquito-borne virus activity.”

Calcasieu Parish Mosquito Control will enhance the intensity of ground and aerial spraying to tackle the issue.

All residents are reminded to apply mosquito repellent consistently and to ideally dress in long sleeves and pants while venturing outdoors, most importantly during early mornings and late evenings. Given that mosquitoes usually lay eggs in water, it's crucial to eliminate or empty any items around your house that could potentially hold water.

For additional information about West Nile activity, follow this link or visit https://www.cdc.gov/westnile.

Follow this link to view the schedule and map for Mosquito Control spraying in Calcasieu Parish.