(La Porte County, IN) - The West Nile virus has been detected in La Porte County for the first time this season.

 

According to the La Porte County Health Department, the positive test result was in a pool of mosquitoes.

 

The mosquitoes were collected late last month and sent downstate where testing confirmed the presence of the virus.

 

Infected mosquitoes can transmit the virus to humans.  So far, no human cases have been reported in La Porte County this season, according to health department officials.

 

The public is asked not to leave pools of standing water on their properties because the species of mosquitoes most likely to transmit the virus prefer to breed in water holding containers like birdbaths and wading pools along with clogged gutters. 

 

The La Porte County Health Department is offering this advice to help prevent infection from a mosquito bite:

• Use enough repellent to cover exposed skin or clothing. Don't apply repellent to skin that is under clothing. Heavy application is not necessary to achieve protection.
• Do not apply repellent to cuts, wounds, or irritated skin.
• After returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water.
• Do not spray aerosol or pump products in enclosed areas. 
• Do not apply aerosol or pump products directly to your face. Spray your hands and then rub them carefully over the face, avoiding eyes and mouth.

For additional information or questions, please contact Patricia Wozniak at the La Porte County Health Department at 219-326-6808 ext. 2200 or 219-874-5611.