Mosquito samples in both Greene and Monroe counties have tested positive for West Nile Virus. The Monroe County Health Department and the Greene County Health Department are urging people to be active in mosquito prevention.
According to press releases from the agencies, the Indiana Department of Health collected the samples for its mosquito surveillance program.
There are no human cases reported of West Nile Virus locally. There are two in Lake County, Indiana.
West Nile Virus is spread by mosquito bites. It can cause fever, body aches, muscle stiffness, and in severe cases, neurological symptoms.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says most people infected, though, don’t have any symptoms. About one in five people will develop a fever and other symptoms. One out of 150 develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness. There is no treatment or vaccine available.
Read more: How to prevent West Nile Virus
The health departments say you can reduce the risk of getting West Nile Virus by taking measures to prevent mosquito bites. Get rid of any standing water to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Wear protective clothing and use insect repellent with DEET or picaridin to prevent bites.
Read more: Indiana reports first 2024 West Nile Virus case, detected in mosquitos across state
