West Nile Virus Detected In Lexington, KY

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Lexington, KY – Health officials have confirmed the presence of West Nile Virus in Lexington, Kentucky. Residents are urged to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

What is West Nile Virus?

West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause illness in humans. Most people infected with WNV do not develop any symptoms. However, about 20% of infected individuals will develop West Nile fever, characterized by:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Body aches
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

In rare cases, WNV can cause a serious neurological illness, such as encephalitis or meningitis, which can be fatal.

How to Protect Yourself

The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department recommends the following precautions to avoid mosquito bites:

  • Use insect repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone according to the product label.
  • Wear protective clothing: When possible, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
  • Take extra care during peak mosquito hours: Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Be sure to take extra care during these times or consider staying indoors.
  • Mosquito-proof your home:
    • Install or repair screens on windows and doors.
    • Empty standing water in flowerpots, gutters, buckets, tires, and other containers.

West Nile Virus in Lexington

The health department is actively monitoring mosquito populations and will continue to provide updates to the public. Residents who experience symptoms of WNV should contact their healthcare provider.

Additional Resources

For more information about West Nile Virus, please visit the CDC website or contact the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department.

This information is for general awareness and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.