Health department to conduct mosquito fogging after West Nile virus found in Louisville

The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness will conduct mosquito fogging in three different Louisville zip codes in response to mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus, according to a release.

The department reportedly found infected mosquitos in surveillance traps in Louisville's Park DuValle, California and Old Louisville neighborhoods. Officials said mosquito fogging will occur in in ZIP codes 40208, 40210, and 40211 this week, weather permitting.

“This is about the time of year we typically see mosquitoes test positive for West Nile,” Louisville’s Interim Chief Health Strategist Connie Mendel said. “No matter what ZIP code you live in, please take precautions to avoid being bitten.”

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There are currently no human cases confirmed this year in Jefferson County, according to the release.

Even though people infected do not show symptoms, 1% of those that are infected could develop a neurological illness, including encephalitis or meningitis. People who age 60 or older, or that have medical conditions including cancer, are at greater risk for a serious illness, officials said.

People can lower the risk of mosquito bites through some of the following ways:

• Using repellents with DEET, picaridin, IR3535 and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products.
• Wearing clothing that covers the arms and legs.
• Avoid doing activities during the peak mosquito-biting hours of early morning and dusk.

People can check if their neighborhood will be fogged through the department’s website or call the mosquito hotline, at (502) 574-6641. To report mosquitoes, call Metro311 or (502) 574-5000.

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