West Nile virus confirmed in Louisville

Four of the West Nile cases were neuroinvasive, which means that it attacks the brain, brain tissue and spinal cord. This can lead to encephalitis or meningitis, according to the public health declaration.

In most cases, however, people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms or relatively mild symptoms. Less than 1% of people infected develop a serious neurological disease, according to the public health statement.

There were no West Nile deaths this year. In 2017, there was a non-fatal case of West Nile Human in Louisville. In 2016, there were two cases in people and one death. In 2015, there were three cases without deaths.

Here are some tips to deter the spread of the virus:

• Use insect repellents when going outside. Repellents containing DEET, picaridine, IR3535 and lemon eucalyptus oil and para- menthane-diol products provide more durable protection. To optimize safety and effectiveness, repellents must be used according to the instructions on the label.
• When time permits, wear long sleeves, long pants and socks outdoors. Mosquitoes can bite themselves in fine clothes. Spraying clothing containing an insect repellent containing permethrin or another insect repellent approved by the EPA will provide additional protection. Do not apply repellents containing permethrin directly to the skin. Do not spray repellent on skin under your clothes.
• Take extra precautions during peak mosquito bites. Take extra precautions to use repellent and protective clothing from dusk to dawn or avoid outdoor activities during these times.
• Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out. Use your air conditioning, if you have one.
• Help reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home by regularly emptying stagnant water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet plates, discarded tires and bird baths.