Prevent West Nile Virus: Louisville Community Advised to Take Action and Stay Safe

West Nile Virus Concerns rise in Louisville: Here’s what You Need to Know

The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness is alerting residents to an increase in West Nile virus infections in Jefferson County.Nine confirmed cases have been reported in 2025, with seven requiring hospitalization. Affected individuals range in age from 40 to 70.

Health officials urge residents to take mosquito prevention seriously.”Assume mosquitoes are carrying West Nile virus no matter what ZIP code you live in,” said Connie Mendel, LMPHW’s chief health strategist.

key Takeaways:

* Nine confirmed cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Louisville in 2025, seven of which required hospitalization.
* Residents are urged to practice mosquito prevention.
* Individuals over 60 or with certain medical conditions are at a greater risk for severe illness.

Kentucky has recorded 19 West Nile virus cases this year, according to data from the centers for Disease control and Prevention (CDC).Jefferson county saw a single case in 2024, and in 2023, there were seven infections and two deaths.

Protect Yourself:

* Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
* Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
* Eliminate standing water around your home, where mosquitoes breed.

What steps can Louisville residents take to reduce mosquito breeding grounds on thier property?

Understanding the West Nile Virus Threat in Louisville

West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne illness that can affect humans, birds, horses, and other animals. Louisville,Kentucky,like many areas with warm climates and significant bird populations,experiences seasonal risks of WNV transmission.The virus is primarily spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes, especially those species that feed on birds and then humans. Recognizing the risks and taking preventative measures is crucial for protecting your health and the health of our community. This year,2025,has seen a moderate increase in mosquito activity due to the unusually wet spring,raising concerns about potential WNV cases.

How West Nile virus Spreads: The Mosquito Lifecycle

The transmission cycle of West Nile Virus revolves around the mosquito. HereS a breakdown:

1. Mosquito Bites Infected Bird: Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on birds carrying the virus.
2. Virus Replication: The virus replicates within the mosquito.
3. transmission to Humans/Animals: When the infected mosquito bites a human or animal, it can transmit the virus.
4. Human Infection: Most human infections are mild, but severe cases can occur.

Understanding this cycle highlights the importance of mosquito control and personal protection. Common mosquito species in Louisville known to carry WNV include Culex pipiens and Culex restuans.

Symptoms of West Nile Virus: What to Watch for

Many people infected with West Nile Virus don’t experiance any symptoms at all. Though, when symptoms do appear, they typically develop between 2 and 14 days after the bite of an infected mosquito.

* Mild Symptoms (80% of cases):

* Fever

* Headache

* Body aches

* Skin rash

* Fatigue

* Severe Symptoms (Less than 1% of cases): These require immediate medical attention.

* High fever

* Stiff neck

* Confusion

* Muscle weakness

* Vision loss

* Seizures

* Paralysis

If you experience any severe symptoms,seek medical care instantly. Early diagnosis and supportive treatment can substantially improve outcomes.

Protecting Yourself: Personal Prevention Strategies

Taking proactive steps to avoid mosquito bites is the best defense against West Nile Virus. Here are several effective strategies:

* Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. Follow the product instructions carefully.

* Wear Protective Clothing: When outdoors,especially during dawn and dusk (peak mosquito activity times),wear long sleeves,long pants,and socks.

* Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Regularly empty and scrub containers that hold water, such as:

* Flower pots

* Birdbaths

* Gutters

* Old tires

* buckets

* Repair Screens: Ensure window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.

* Mosquito Dunks/Bits: Use mosquito dunks or bits containing Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (bti) in standing water that cannot be eliminated,like ponds or rain barrels. Bti is a naturally occurring bacterium that kills mosquito larvae.

Louisville-Specific Mosquito Control Efforts

The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness actively monitors mosquito populations and WNV activity throughout the city.Their efforts include:

* Mosquito Surveillance: Trapping and testing mosquitoes for WNV.

* Larviciding: Applying larvicides to standing water to kill mosquito larvae.

* Public Education: Providing information to residents about WNV prevention.

* Aerial Spraying (When Necessary): In cases of significant outbreaks, aerial spraying might potentially be conducted to control adult mosquito populations.residents will be notified in advance of any aerial spraying events. You can find updates and information on the Louisville Metro Public Health & Wellness website (https://louisvilleky.gov/government/public-health-wellness).

Protecting Your Pets from West Nile Virus

While less common, pets (especially horses) can also contract West Nile Virus.

---