Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana - Residents of Calcasieu Parish are urged to take precautions against mosquito bites after a recent test confirmed the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV) in one of the parish's mosquito pools. The Louisiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory in Baton Rouge confirmed the finding, prompting Calcasieu Parish Mosquito Control to increase ground and aerial spraying efforts to combat the problem.

WNV, transmitted through mosquito bites, can cause inflammation of the brain, leading to serious and potentially fatal illnesses in some cases. While most people infected with WNV do not exhibit symptoms, approximately one in five individuals will develop a fever and flu-like symptoms. In rare cases, about 1 out of 150 infected people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening symptoms.

According to Scott Harrington, Calcasieu Parish Mosquito Control Manager, "July and August are the months when we typically see West Nile Virus activity in our parish. Everyone needs to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites." Harrington emphasized the importance of using mosquito repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

Residents can also play a crucial role in preventing the spread of WNV by eliminating potential breeding sites around their homes. Mosquitoes typically lay their eggs in water, so disposing of or draining any water-holding items, such as buckets, flowerpots, and pet water dishes, can help reduce the mosquito population.

For more information on West Nile Virus activity and prevention measures, residents can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website at www.cdc.gov/westnile.