Health Department Updates Human Cases and Deaths of West Nile Virus in Marion County
Created on Thursday, 06 September 2012 12:28
Contact: Collette Duvalle, 317-373-2391
The Marion County Public Health Department today announced that there is a second death in Marion County from West Nile Virus and the number of human cases continues to rise with ten as of today.
- 2011 – 1 human case and no death
- 2010-3 human cases and no death
- 2009 – 1 death
- Since 2002 to date, there have been over 60 human cases of West Nile virus.
Residents are encouraged to protect themselves from West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases. West Nile virus transmission within the mosquito populations is currently much higher than in previous years.
Continue to follow the 4 D’s. DEET, DUSK/DAWN, DRESS and DRAIN.
- DEET is an important ingredient to look for in your insect repellent
- DUSK/DAWN is the best time of day to stay inside because that is when mosquitoes are active. This is when infected mosquitoes are most active.
- DRESS in long sleeves and long pants when you’re outdoors. For extra protection, you may want to spray your clothing with repellent.
- DRAIN standing water in your back yard and neighborhood
The Marion County mosquito control department continues to monitor the county and investigates areas where there are infected adult mosquitoes. Once identified these areas will be treated for two consecutive nights. Surveillance sites located throughout the county are used to trap mosquitoes that are then tested by the health department’s laboratory staff.
For more information about mosquito control services, contact 221-7440
