Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus in Knox County

KNOX COUNTY, Ind. (We Are Knox County) - Health officials are warning residents to take precautions after West Nile Virus was found in mosquitoes in Knox County.

The Knox County Health Department says the State of Indiana confirmed the virus after entomologists set traps to test local mosquito populations.

“It’s not uncommon to find the virus in Knox County,” said the Health Department.

“This year, state officials report that the virus appears to be more widespread and is showing up earlier than usual.”

According to the Health Department, both the City of Vincennes and Knox County officials have been notified and plans are underway to spray areas to reduce mosquito populations.

The virus is carried by Culex mosquitoes, which are active only at night.

The Health Department says that only about 20 percent of people bitten by an infected mosquito develop symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and malaise.

Severe illness occurs in about 1 in 150 infections and can cause symptoms such as severe headache, confusion, seizures, and other signs of encephalitis.

The CDC says there’s no specific medicine or vaccine for West Nile Virus, but most people who become infected recover on their own with rest, fluids, and pain relievers.

Those with severe cases may need hospital treatment.

Dr. Alan Stewart, from the Knox County Health Department, confirmed that no human cases have been reported in Knox County so far.

Officials say the best way to stay safe is to use mosquito repellent with DEET and avoid being outside from dusk until dawn when Culex mosquitoes are most active.