The Clay County Health Department has confirmed the county’s first mosquito sample to test positive for West Nile virus (WNV) this year.
The positive mosquito batch was collected in Louisville on July 24th and confirmed through routine laboratory testing.
Health officials say the positive test indicates the virus is circulating in the community, increasing the risk of human infection. Residents are encouraged to protect themselves from mosquito bites by following the three R’s: Reduce exposure to mosquitoes, Repel mosquitoes by using insect repellent, and Report areas where mosquitoes breed.
West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, which becomes infected after feeding on infected birds. The virus is not spread from person to person.
Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms. Those who do may experience fever, headache, nausea, and muscle aches lasting from several days to a few weeks. In rare cases, the virus can cause serious illnesses such as meningitis or encephalitis, and can be fatal. Adults 50 years of age and older are at greater risk of severe illness.
Health officials note that West Nile virus is typically detected in mosquito populations two to six weeks before human cases occur. Clay County monitors mosquito activity through routine testing of mosquito samples and by responding to reports of mosquito breeding areas to help identify periods of increased risk.