Health officials report sharp increase in West Nile virus

State health officials report a sharp increase in positive West Nile virus results throughout the state. There are now 25 counties with positive West Nile tests for mosquitoes and dead birds.

"The dramatic rise in positives means an increased risk for West Nile transmission to humans," said James Howell, DVM, veterinary epidemiologist with the Indiana State Department of Health. "We will continue to have high risk of transmission until late September."

This is the largest increase in West Nile activity in such a short period since 2002, which saw 293 human cases, and reports of the virus in every county in Indiana.

"Unfortunately, West Nile never goes completely away," said Dr. Howell. "We have every reason to suspect that it is still present in all counties. Just because it hasn't been reported in a particular county, doesn't mean it's not there."

There has been only one reported human case so far this year, in Jackson County.

Health officials continue to urge Hoosiers to take the following protective steps when they are outdoors:

* Avoid being outdoors during prime mosquito biting times, dusk to dawn, when possible;

* Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to clothes and exposed skin; and

* Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.

State health officials encourage Hoosiers to take steps to rid their properties of potential mosquito breeding grounds by:

* Repairing failed septic systems;

* Drilling holes in the bottom of recycling containers that are left outdoors;

* Keeping grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed;

* Disposing of old tires, tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or other unused containers that can hold water;

* Cleaning clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up the drains; and

* Aerating ornamental pools, or stock them with mosquito-eating fish.

Health officials report that although individuals over age 50 are at greatest risk for serious illness and even death from West Nile virus, people of all ages are susceptible to the virus.

For more information regarding the West Nile virus, please visit the ISDH Web site at www.in.gov/isdh/healthinfo/westnile/ index.htm.