A nonprofit publication of the Kentucky Center for Public Service Journalism

Three cases of West Nile Virus reported in NKY, residents asked to practice mosquito bite prevention


The Northern Kentucky Health Department has been notified of three human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) since July. WNV is an illness that can be transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito; it is not spread from person to person.

NKY Health encourages residents to practice mosquito bite prevention behaviors that can reduce their risk of getting WNV. Key prevention tips include using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

Steps should also be taken to eliminate mosquito breeding sites that can be found anyplace where standing pools of water are present, such as containers in yards, unmaintained swimming pools, clogged gutters and similar items that can hold water.

WNV has been in local populations of birds and mosquitoes for many years now, which is why individuals should take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites through the summer and fall seasons.

Most people infected with WNV do not develop symptoms.

Only about 1 in 5 people who are infected develop symptoms, which can include fever, headache, body and joint aches, vomiting, diarrhea and rash. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness that can affect the nervous system and organs. Any person who believes they may have symptoms of WNV should contact their health care provider.

Click here for more information.

The Northern Kentucky Health Department provides public health services to more than 400,000 residents of Boone, Campbell, Grant and Kenton Counties, with a goal of preventing disease, promoting wellness and protecting against health threats.

The Health Department seeks to be a nationwide leader in public health, and was one of the first in the country to earn national public health accreditation. For more information, click here.

Northern Kentucky Health Department


Related Posts

Leave a Comment