Post Isaac Standing Water Could Boost West Nile Cases

We managed to luck out when it came to Hurricane Isaac at least as far as storm damage goes. that's the good news. The bad news is, that a lot of rain has been dumped on Southwest Louisiana this Summer and that means a wonderful environment for mosquitoes. It only takes one bite from one West Nile carrying mosquito to put you in danger. The Center for Disease Control say's they expect to see a sharp rise in the number of West Nile cases because of all the standing water

The Centers for Disease Control has reported nearly 1,600 cases of West Nile virus -  and 145  of those cases are in Louisiana.  Amanda Bryant, the West Calcasieu-Cameron Hospital Infection Control Coordinator, says that there have been 9 deaths so far.

The symptoms of West Nile are pretty mundane. An infected person may experience  fever, fatigue, or a general headache.

West Nile is typically a late summer disease.  But with the weather staying warm in this area so late in the season, coupled with all the standing water, the chances of the disease becoming more wide-spread are higher.

Here is some great advice from The Center for Disease Control:

• When you are outdoors, use insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient. Follow the directions on the package.
• Many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Be sure to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at these times or consider staying indoors during these hours.
• Make sure you have good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
• Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets and barrels. Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Keep children's wading pools empty and on their sides when they aren't being used.

If you experience any of the symptoms of West Nile, see a doctor right away!