Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 382 cases, of which 156 are neuroinvasive disease, and 17 deaths

[Pathfinder]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - Six people have died of neuroinvasive disease (NID)

DHH Confirms Four Additional West Nile Virus Deaths

Louisiana reports 37 total neuro-invasive cases; highest rate since 2006

Friday, August 10, 2012 | Contact: Bureau of Media & Communications (225) 342-1532

BATON ROUGE?Louisiana continues to see an increase in West Nile virus infections, with the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals reporting 15 new cases and four deaths from the disease. So far this year, six people have died from the virus, and DHH has detected 68 cases. More than half ? 37? of this year's cases are West Nile neuro-invasive disease, the more serious form of the virus that infects the brain and spinal cord and can cause brain damage or death. This is the highest total of West Nile neuro-invasive infections that have occurred in the state since 2006.

DHH issues a weekly Arbovirus Surveillance Report that details cases detected thus far by parish, which is published here. This week's 15 new infections include eight cases of neuro-invasive disease, with one each reported from Bossier, Caddo, Concordia, Jefferson, Tangipahoa, Union, Washington and Webster parishes. There were also new cases of West Nile fever, the milder form of the virus that causes flu-like symptoms, reported from Livingston (1), Orleans (1), Ouachita (1) and St. Tammany (2) parishes. Two new asymptomatic cases, meaning the infected people had the virus but did not feel ill and only discovered the West Nile infection when they had blood work done for an unrelated reason such as blood donation, were reported from East Baton Rouge and Rapides parishes.

"The increased cases we are seeing this year are a firm reminder that West Nile Virus is a serious disease, and people need to be vigilant about protecting themselves," said Dr. Raoult Ratard, DHH State Epidemiologist. "We know from 10 years of surveillance that this disease is active in every corner of the state, and people are at risk of getting it regardless of whether cases or deaths occurred in their parishes. Everyone should own their own health and take precautions against mosquito bites."

St. Tammany Parish has reported the most West Nile Virus infections so far, with six neuro-invasive disease cases, four West Nile fever cases and one asymptomatic case. East Baton Rouge Parish has reported five neuro-invasive disease cases, two West Nile fever and two asymptomatic cases, and Tangipahoa Parish has four neuro-invasive disease cases, two West Nile fever cases and three asymptomatic cases.

Most people who contract West Nile virus will have asymptomatic cases, and nearly 10 percent of all cases will develop West Nile fever. Only a very small percentage of infected people develop neuro-invasive disease, and the elderly are particularly at risk for this form of the virus. But, health officials urge individuals of every age to take precautions.
Local mosquito control partners and abatement districts remain vigilant in keeping the population of infected mosquitos under control, but everyone has a personal responsibility to prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.

.../

http://new.dhh.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/2569

[Pathfinder]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - Six people have died of neuroinvasive disease (NID)

Posted: Wednesday, August 15, 2012 6:53 am
<!-- AP Bookmark -->
Bogalusa man suffering from West Nile Virus

<!-- AP Byline -->By Richard Meek The Daily NewsThe Daily News |
<!-- AP Content --><!-- (START) Pagination Wrapper --><!-- (START) Pagination Content Wrapper -->
Washington Parish has its first confirmed case this year of the West Nile Virus.

Darren Spears of Bogalusa, who is in his late 30s, remains hospitalized at University Hospital in New Orleans where he has been for the past two-and-a-half weeks, according to his mother, Frances Spears, also of Bogalusa.
...
Lisa Spears, sister-in-law of Darren, said he showed symptoms of headaches, fever and neck pain more than two weeks ago. Frances Spears said her son was also growing weaker and more fatigued by the day and on the morning of July 28, a Saturday, she found him on his sofa in his home, unable to move.

He was immediately brought to LSU Bogalusa Medical Center where he underwent a series of tests, including a spinal tap, according to Frances Spears. She was told that her son was running a high fever and was dehydrated.

She said doctors at LSUBMC suspected Darren Spears was suffering from West Nile but could not confirm it until test results were confirmed. Later that Saturday, Spears was transferred by ambulance to University Hospital in New Orleans, where additional tests were performed.

Full text:

http://www.gobogalusa.com/news/article_0c73b40e-e6d0-11e1-942e-001a4bcf887a.html

[Giuseppe]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - Six people have died of neuroinvasive disease (NID)

[Source: US State of Louisiana, Department of Health, full page: (LINK). Edited.]

DHH Confirms 24 Additional West Nile Virus Infections, Protecting yourself is the best line of defense


Friday, August 17, 2012 | Contact: Bureau of Media & Communications (225) 342-1532



Baton Rouge?Louisiana continues to see a rise in human West Nile virus infections, with the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals reporting 24 new cases this week.

No additional deaths from West Nile have occurred, though six people this year have died after contracting the virus.

DHH has detected 92 West Nile virus cases thus far for 2012, and more than half of these - 47 - are West Nile neuroinvasive disease, the more serious form of the virus that infects the brain and spinal cord and can cause brain damage or death.

DHH issues a weekly Arbovirus Surveillance Report that details cases detected thus far by parish, which is published here.

The 24 new infections include 10 cases of neuroinvasive disease, with four being reported in Caddo Parish and one each reported from DeSoto, Orleans, Ouachita, St. Tammany, Tanigipahoa and Webster parishes.

There were also new cases of West Nile fever, the milder form of the virus that causes flu-like symptoms, reported from Avoyelles (1), Bossier (3), Caddo (2), Iberville (1), Ouachita (1), Rapides (2) and St. Tammany (1) parishes.

Three new asymptomatic cases, meaning the infected people had the virus but did not feel ill and only discovered the West Nile infection when they had blood work done for an unrelated reason such as blood donation, were reported from Caddo, Pointe Coupee and West Baton Rouge parishes.

"We continue to confirm additional cases each week, and as mosquitoes remain active, we can expect to see more," said Dr. Raoult Ratard, DHH State Epidemiologist. "People need to take this disease seriously and follow precautions to avoid mosquito bites."

St. Tammany Parish has reported Louisiana's most neuroinvasive disease cases so far with seven, Caddo Parish is reporting six neuroinvasive disease cases and East Baton Rouge and Tangipahoa parishes each have five neuroinvasive disease cases. But, infected mosquito pools that carry the virus have been detected in all parts of the state, so health officials remind residents that they must take precautions regardless of whether there are cases in their areas.

Most people who contract West Nile virus will have asymptomatic cases, and nearly 10 percent of all cases will develop West Nile fever. Only a very small percentage of infected people develop neuroinvasive disease, and the elderly are particularly at risk for this form of the virus. But, health officials urge individuals of every age to take precautions.

Local mosquito control partners and abatement districts remain vigilant in keeping the population of infected mosquitos under control, but everyone has a personal responsibility to prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.



Protect Yourself

• If you will be outside, you should wear a mosquito repellent containing DEET. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that repellents should contain no more than 30% DEET when used on children. Insect repellents also are not recommended for children younger than 2 months. CDC recommends that you always follow the recommendations appearing on the product label when using repellent.
• People should be especially vigilant if they are outside at dusk. The mosquitoes that carry West Nile are most active at that time.
• Apply repellent on exposed skin and clothing. Do not apply under your clothes or on broken skin.
• To apply repellent to your face, spray on your hands and then rub on your face.
• Adults should always apply repellent to children.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors for long periods of time.
• Avoid perfumes and colognes when outdoors for extended periods of time.
• Make sure that your house has tight-fitting windows and doors, and that all screens are free of holes.

Reduce the mosquito population by eliminating standing water around your home, which is where mosquitoes breed:

• Dispose of tin cans, ceramic pots and other unnecessary containers that have accumulated on your property. Turn over wheelbarrows, plastic wading pools or buckets that could collect water.
• Drill holes in the bottom of outdoor recycling containers. Drainage holes that are located on the container sides collect enough water for mosquitoes to breed.
• Clean clogged roof gutters yearly. They are often overlooked, but can produce millions of mosquitoes each season.
• Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish. Water gardens can become major mosquito producers if they are allowed to stagnate.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools that are not being used. A swimming pool that is left untended by a family that goes on vacation for a month can produce enough mosquitoes to result in neighborhood-wide complaints. Be aware that mosquitoes may even breed in the water that collects on swimming pool covers.

West Nile virus has been active in Louisiana since 2002, when the state experienced 328 cases and 24 deaths from the disease. For 10 years, state health officials have conducted robust surveillance during mosquito season, which includes working with doctors, hospitals and health care providers around the state to track human cases and reminding people to be vigilant in avoiding mosquito bites.

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals strives to protect and promote health statewide and to ensure access to medical, preventive and rehabilitative services for all state citizens.

To learn more about DHH, visit http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov.

For up-to-date health information, news and emergency updates, follow DHH's blog, Twitter account and Facebook.

###

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[Pathfinder]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - Six people have died of neuroinvasive disease (NID)

West Nile virus infections in Louisiana are the highest in 6 years

Published: Wednesday, August 22, 2012, 10:16 PM
By Times-Picayune Staff

With the United States in the grip of the worst outbreak of West Nile virus infections since the virus was first detected in this country 13 years ago, Louisiana health officials on Wednesday warned citizens to take precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes that might be harboring the potentially lethal virus. According to the latest available reports, Louisiana has attributed 92 infections and six deaths to the virus this year, the most in each category since 2006. The first case in Louisiana was reported in 2002.

Nationally, 1,118 cases and 42 deaths have been reported this year, with 640 infections and 23 deaths occurring in Texas, figures from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show.

The nationwide case count is about three times higher than the norm at this point in the season, which ends around the time of the first nip of chilly weather.

Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Dakota and Oklahoma account for about 75 percent of this year?s infections, according to the CDC.

At a Baton Rouge news conference Wednesday, State Health Officer Jimmy Guidry warned against trying to discern any trends in the data because many people are infected without knowing it because their immune systems can thwart the virus.

As a result, those infections are not reported unless evidence of the virus shows up during routine blood work during a medical checkup, so, Guidry said, there may be a large number of infections in areas that might seem virus-free.

Read more...

http://www.nola.com/health/index.ssf/2012/08/west_nile_virus_infections_in.html

[Shiloh]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 9 deaths total

Source: http://www.katc.com/news/3-new-west-...ases-up-to-53/
3 new West Nile deaths, total cases up to 53
Posted: Aug 24, 2012 5:49 PM by AP

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) - State health officials confirm three more people have died from West Nile virus, bringing the total to nine so far this year.

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals also said Friday that 53 new human cases of the virus have been confirmed and mark 145 reported infections so far in 2012 - the highest number of cases the state has seen in the past several years...

[Ronan Kelly]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 9 deaths total

Louisiana Confirms 53 New West Nile Cases, Three News Deaths
State health officials remind public to Fight the Bite and protect themselves from infection
Friday, August 24, 2012 | Contact: Bureau of Media & Communications (225) 342-1532
Baton Rouge?The Department of Health and Hospitals today confirms 53 new human cases of West Nile virus. These new cases mark 145 reported infections of West Nile in Louisiana so far in 2012, the highest number of cases the state has seen in the past several years. The state also confirmed three deaths from West Nile this week. So far in 2012, nine people have died from this disease.

State health officials urge the public to be vigilant in avoiding mosquito bites, which is how people contract West Nile virus. DHH Office of Public Health Assistant Secretary J.T. Lane and State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry held a press conference earlier this week to emphasize that the increasing cases are a stern reminder that this virus is a real but preventable threat, and that people have a personal responsibility to protect themselves and their families.

"West Nile has been present in Louisiana every year since 2002, and if you can be bitten by a mosquito, you can get this disease," Lane said. "But, this is an easy illness to avoid - if you know you'll be outside, take a few minutes to apply repellant. We want people to be especially mindful of this because we are just getting to the time of year when people are spending more time outside tailgating, going to football games and having cookouts. Be aware of West Nile, and do what you need to do to protect yourself."

When people are infected with West Nile, the virus will affect them one of three ways. West Nile neuroinvasive disease is the most serious type, infecting the brain and spinal cord. Neuroinvasive disease can lead to death, paralysis and brain damage. The milder viral infection is West Nile Fever, in which people experience flu-like symptoms. The majority of people who contract West Nile will be asymptomatic, which means they show no symptoms. These cases are typically detected through blood donations or in the course of other routine medical tests.

Of the new West Nile cases reported this week, 31 have neuroinvasive disease, from Ascension (1), Bossier (2), Caddo (3), Calcasieu (2), Caldwell (1), East Baton Rouge (4), East Feliciana (1), Jefferson (3), Livingston (1), Natchitoches (1), Orleans (4), Ouachita (1), St. Bernard (1), St. Helena (1), St. Tammany (2) and Tangipahoa (3) parishes; 17 have West Nile Fever, from Bossier (1), East Baton Rouge (1), East Feliciana (2), Iberville (1), Jefferson (1), Livingston (3), Orleans (1), Ouachita (2), St. Tammany (1), Washington (1), Webster (1) and West Baton Rouge (2) parishes; and five have asymptomatic cases, one each from Ascension, Calcasieu, Iberia, Orleans and Plaquemines parishes.

DHH issues a weekly Arbovirus Surveillance Report that details cases detected thus far by parish, which is published here.

The most active year for West Nile cases in Louisiana was 2002, when the state experienced 328 cases and 24 deaths. For 10 years, state health officials have conducted robust surveillance year-round, which includes working with doctors, hospitals and health care providers around the state to track human cases and reminding people to be vigilant in avoiding mosquito bites.

"Older people and those who have weaker immune systems are most at risk for getting the most serious kind of West Nile infection, neuroinvasive disease, but people of every age should protect themselves," Guidry said. "We know from a decade of surveillance that this virus has been found in mosquitoes everywhere in our state, so people need to 'Fight the Bite.' If you can reduce your risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito, you can reduce your risk of getting West Nile."
...

http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/2581

[Pathfinder]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 9 deaths total

Mosquitoes may swarm due to storm

By Nikki Buskey
Staff Writer
Published: Tuesday, September 4, 2012 at 8:23 a.m.
Last Modified: Tuesday, September 4, 2012 at 8:23 a.m.

After Hurricane Isaac left a lot of water behind, residents may be dealing with a new problem: lots of mosquitoes.

And with Louisiana experiencing the highest rate of West Nile virus infections in several years, state officials are warning people to take precautions against mosquitoes.
...
The major hatch-off will likely occur in about a week, Boudreaux said.
...
West Nile-carrying mosquitoes will not be hatching from Isaac?s floodwaters. The types of mosquitoes that hatch off after a storm are bothersome and will bite you but do not carry the disease. West Nile-carrying mosquitoes prefer breeding in stagnant water in ditches and containers.

Residents should be mindful of dumping out containers that collected rain water around their homes and property to prevent mosquitoes from breeding and swarming, Boudreaux said.
...

Full text:

http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20120904/ARTICLES/120909934/1213?Title=Mosquitoes-may-swarm-due-to-storm

[Pathfinder]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 215 reported infections, 10 deaths

State Health Officials Confirm 39 New West Nile Cases, Remind Residents to Fight the Bite

Friday, September 14, 2012 | Contact: Bureau of Media & Communications (225) 342-1532

BATON ROUGE?The Department of Health and Hospitals today confirmed 39 new human cases of West Nile virus, marking 215 reported infections of West Nile in Louisiana this year. The State is experiencing its highest number of West Nile cases in several years. There have also been 10 West Nile deaths reported thus far in 2012.

"Hurricane Isaac left behind a lot of water, which, left standing, is a risk for mosquitoes breeding and swarming," said DHH Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein. "In addition to that, fall is getting closer, the weather is getting more pleasant, and people are spending more time outdoors.

Everyone needs to be aware of the threat of West Nile virus and Fight the Bite. Put on repellant before you go outside, dress appropriately and empty standing water around your home. Take these small steps to protect your health."

Humans contract West Nile when they are bitten by mosquitoes infected with the virus. When people are infected with West Nile, the virus will affect them one of three ways. West Nile neuroinvasive disease is the most serious type, infecting the brain and spinal cord. Neuroinvasive disease can lead to death, paralysis and brain damage. The milder viral infection is West Nile Fever, in which people experience flu-like symptoms. The majority of people who contract West Nile will be asymptomatic, which means they show no symptoms. These cases are typically detected through blood donations or in the course of other routine medical tests.

There are 11 neuroinvasive disease cases reported this week, from Caddo (1), East Baton Rouge (2), Jefferson (1), Livingston (3), Lincoln (1), Richland (1), St. Tammany (1) and Tangipahoa (1) parishes. Ten of these cases are newly reported West Nile infections, and one is a previously diagnosed case that progressed into neuroinvasive disease.
There are 28 new West Nile Fever cases, from Ascension (1), Caddo (1), Calcasieu (1), Concordia (1), DeSoto (1), East Baton Rouge (5), Iberville (2), Jefferson (1), Lafourche (1), Lafayette (1), Livingston (1), Orleans (1), Ouachita (1), Pointe Coupee (3), St. Charles (1), St. Tammany (3), Tangipahoa (1), Washington (1) and West Baton Rouge (1) parishes.
One of the 39 new cases is asymptomatic, from Calcasieu Parish.

DHH issues a weekly Arbovirus Surveillance Report that details cases detected thus far by parish, which is published here.

The most active year for West Nile cases in Louisiana was 2002, when the state experienced 328 cases and 24 deaths. For 10 years, state health officials have conducted robust surveillance year-round, which includes working with doctors, hospitals and health care providers around the state to track human cases and reminding people to be vigilant in avoiding mosquito bites.

"A decade of surveillance has shown us that this virus is active in every part of our State, meaning everyone is at risk," Greenstein said. "We know older people and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk for neuroinvasive disease, but if you can be bitten by a mosquito, you can get West Nile virus. Own your own health, and take steps to protect yourself and your family."

More...

http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/2632

[Shiloh]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 215 reported infections, 10 deaths; 4th grader the latest death

Source: http://www.thenewsstar.com/article/2...dies-West-Nile

Riverbend student dies of West Nile
10:00 AM, Sep 17, 2012 |
Written by
Barbara Leader


A Riverbend Elementary fourth-grader died Sunday following an illness which Ouachita Parish School officials confirm was West Nile Virus.

Assistant Principal Sharon Myles said Charly Pratt attended school at Riverbend on Aug. 20 and 21, but was hospitalized with the illness and remained in the hospital until her death on Sunday...

[Shiloh]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 251 reported infections, 11 deaths

Source: http://www.fox8live.com/story/196096...d-in-louisiana


36 New West Nile cases confirmed in Louisiana
Updated: Sep 21, 2012 7:27 PM EDT

Baton Rouge, La. - State health officials reported one more West Nile death and three dozen new cases of the disease...

...So far in 2012, Louisiana has seen 251 cases and 11 deaths...The state says of the eight new neuroinvasive forms of the disease reported this week, one is in St. Charles Parish...

[Giuseppe]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 251 reported infections, 11 deaths

[Source: Louisiana Department of Health, full page: (LINK). Edited.]

State Health Officials Confirm 36 New West Nile Cases, One New Death

Louisiana has experienced 251 human infections, 11 deaths from the virus this year

Friday, September 21, 2012 | Contact: Bureau of Media & Communications (225) 342-1532



BATON ROUGE?State health officials today confirmed 36 new West Nile virus cases and one newly reported death from the disease. Louisiana is experiencing its highest number of reported West Nile infections in recent years, with 251 cases and 11 deaths from the disease thus far in 2012.

"It is very important, especially as we head into fall and people begin spending more time outdoors, to take precautions against this potentially fatal disease," said Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein. "West Nile is a risk, but it's one that is easily prevented - Fight the Bite. Wear repellant and protective clothing if you are going outdoors and empty standing water around your homes to prevent mosquitoes from breeding and swarming."

Humans contract West Nile when they are bitten by mosquitoes infected with the virus. When people are infected with West Nile, the virus will affect them one of three ways.

West Nile neuroinvasive disease is the most serious type, infecting the brain and spinal cord. Neuroinvasive disease can lead to death, paralysis and brain damage. The milder viral infection is West Nile Fever, in which people experience flu-like symptoms. The majority of people who contract West Nile will be asymptomatic, which means they show no symptoms.

These cases are typically detected through blood donations or in the course of other routine medical tests.

There are eight new neuroinvasive disease cases reported this week, from Beauregard (1), Bienville (1), Caddo (3), Rapides (1), St. Charles (1) and Webster (1) parishes. Seven of these cases are newly reported West Nile infections, and one is a previously reported case that progressed into neuroinvasive disease.

There are 21 new West Nile Fever cases, from Bossier (3), Caddo (6), Calcasieu (3), Concordia (1), East Baton Rouge (1), Jefferson (1), Lincoln (1), Livingston (1), Richland (1), St. Tammany (1) and Webster (2) parishes.

There are eight new asymptomatic cases reported this week, from Ascension (1), Caddo (3), Lafayette (1), Lafourche (1), Richland (1) and Vernon (1) parishes.

DHH issues a weekly Arbovirus Surveillance Report that details cases detected thus far by parish, which is published here.

The most active year for West Nile cases in Louisiana was 2002, when the state experienced 328 cases and 24 deaths.

For 10 years, state health officials have conducted robust surveillance year-round, which includes working with doctors, hospitals and health care providers around the state to track human cases and reminding people to be vigilant in avoiding mosquito bites.

"While older people and those who have weaker immune systems are most at risk for West Nile neuroinvasive disease, everyone needs to be aware of their risks and take precautions," Greenstein said. "We know from 10 years of tracking West Nile that no matter where you live or whether or not there have been cases reported in your parish, if you can be bitten by a mosquito, you can get West Nile virus. And if you can get West Nile, it can progress into neuroinvasive disease. Take steps to avoid mosquito bites so you can protect your health."



Fight the Bite

Local mosquito control partners and abatement districts remain vigilant in keeping the population of infected mosquitos under control, but everyone has a personal responsibility to avoid mosquito bites. Health officials recommend:

• If you will be outside, you should wear a mosquito repellent containing DEET. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that repellents should contain no more than 30% DEET when used on children. Insect repellents also are not recommended for children younger than 2 months. CDC recommends that you always follow the recommendations appearing on the product label when using repellent.
• People should be especially vigilant if they are outside at dawn and dusk. The mosquitoes that carry West Nile are most active at that time. But, people should take precautions against mosquitoes if they are outside at any time of day.
• Apply repellent on exposed skin and clothing. Do not apply under your clothes or on broken skin.
• To apply repellent to your face, spray on your hands and then rub on your face.
• Adults should always apply repellent to children.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors for long periods of time.
• Avoid perfumes and colognes when outdoors for extended periods of time.
• Make sure that your house has tight-fitting windows and doors, and that all screens are free of holes.

Another effective way to prevent mosquito bites is to drain stagnant water from around homes and property to prevent mosquitoes from breeding and swarming:

• Dispose of tin cans, ceramic pots and other unnecessary containers that have accumulated on your property. Turn over wheelbarrows, plastic wading pools or buckets that could collect water.
• Drill holes in the bottom of outdoor recycling containers. Drainage holes that are located on the container sides collect enough water for mosquitoes to breed.
• Clean clogged roof gutters yearly. They are often overlooked, but can produce millions of mosquitoes each season.
• Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish. Water gardens can become major mosquito producers if they are allowed to stagnate.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools that are not being used. An unattended swimming pool can produce enough mosquitoes to result in neighborhood-wide complaints. Be aware that mosquitoes may even breed in the water that collects on swimming pool covers.

For more information on West Nile activity in Louisiana and prevention tips, visit www.dhh.louisiana.gov/FighttheBite.

-
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[Pathfinder]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 305 reported infections, 11 deaths

It Might be Fall, but Residents Still Need to Fight the Bite
Health Department Urges Prevention as More West Nile Cases Reported

Friday, October 5, 2012 | Contact: Bureau of Media & Communications (225) 342-1532

BATON ROUGE?Even though the fall season is under way, state health officials remind Louisiana residents that West Nile virus remains a threat, and urges everyone to protect their health by avoiding mosquito bites.

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals today confirmed 25 new West Nile virus cases. No West Nile deaths occurred this week. Louisiana is experiencing the most West Nile cases since its 2002 outbreak year, with 305 cases and 11 deaths from the disease reported thus far in 2012.

"We're still having warm weather, and many areas of the state experienced heavy rainfall in the past week, which means people must be aware of their risk for West Nile virus and 'Fight the Bite'," said DHH Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein. "If you plan to spend time outdoors, put on mosquito repellant and wear protective clothing. It's also important to empty rainwater and other standing water around your property to prevent mosquito activity near your homes."

Humans contract West Nile when they are bitten by mosquitoes infected with the virus. When people are infected with West Nile, the virus will affect them one of three ways. West Nile neuroinvasive disease is the most serious type, infecting the brain and spinal cord. Neuroinvasive disease can lead to death, paralysis and brain damage. The milder viral infection is West Nile fever, in which people experience flu-like symptoms.
The majority of people who contract West Nile will be asymptomatic, which means they show no symptoms. These cases are typically detected through blood donations or in the course of other routine medical tests.

There are seven new neuroinvasive disease cases reported this week, from Ascension (1), Caddo (2), East Baton Rouge (1), Franklin (1), Grant (1) and Morehouse (1) parishes.
There are 18 new West Nile Fever cases, from Ascension (1), Bossier (1), Caddo (5), Calcasieu (1), East Baton Rouge (2), East Feliciana (2), Franklin (1), Jefferson (1), Livingston (1), St. Tammany (2) and Tangipahoa (1) parishes.

There are no new asymptomatic cases reported this week.

DHH issues a weekly Arbovirus Surveillance Report that details cases detected thus far by parish, which is published here.

The most active year for West Nile cases in Louisiana was 2002, when the state experienced 328 cases and 24 deaths. For 10 years, state health officials have conducted robust surveillance year-round, which includes working with doctors, hospitals and health care providers around the state to track human cases and reminding people to be vigilant in avoiding mosquito bites.

...

http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/2651

[Pathfinder]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 312 reported infections, 12 deaths

Health Department Reports Nine New West Nile Cases and One Death

Residents Should Remain Vigilant in Protecting Themselves from Mosquito Bites

Friday, October 12, 2012 | Contact: Bureau of Media & Communications (225) 342-1532

BATON ROUGE?State health officials remind Louisiana residents that West Nile virus remains a threat, as the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals today confirms nine new West Nile virus cases. Also, one death from West Nile occurred this week. This year, Louisiana is experiencing the most West Nile cases since its 2002 outbreak year, with 312 cases and 12 deaths from the disease reported.

"This has been a very active year for West Nile virus, and it is a firm reminder that this disease is a threat to all areas of our state," said DHH Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein. "We've already had many cases and, unfortunately, 12 deaths. We also continue to see parishes reporting their first human cases of West Nile for the year in our weekly report. This continued increase, even as we get later into the year, shows why it's important for everyone to protect their health and avoid mosquito bites."

Humans contract West Nile when they are bitten by mosquitoes infected with the virus. When people are infected with West Nile, the virus will affect them one of three ways. West Nile neuroinvasive disease is the most serious type, infecting the brain and spinal cord. Neuroinvasive disease can lead to death, paralysis and brain damage. The milder viral infection is West Nile fever, in which people experience flu-like symptoms.

The majority of people who contract West Nile will be asymptomatic, which means they show no symptoms. These cases are typically detected through blood donations or in the course of other routine medical tests.

There are five new neuroinvasive disease cases reported this week, from Calcasieu (2), Iberia (1), Lafayette (1) and Orleans (1) parishes.

There are four new West Nile Fever cases, from Ascension (2), Jefferson Davis (1) and Livingston (1) parishes.

There were no new asymptomatic cases reported this week.

DHH issues a weekly Arbovirus Surveillance Report that details cases detected thus far by parish, which is published here.

The most active year for West Nile cases in Louisiana was 2002, when the state experienced 328 cases and 24 deaths. For 10 years, state health officials have conducted robust surveillance year-round, which includes working with doctors, hospitals and health care providers around the state to track human cases and reminding people to be vigilant in avoiding mosquito bites.

More...

http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/2667

[Pathfinder]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 321 reported infections, 12 deaths

Health Department Reports Continued Increase in West Nile Virus Cases

Residents should keep up the fight against mosquito bites into the fall season

Friday, October 19, 2012 | Contact: Bureau of Media & Communications (225) 342-1532

Baton Rouge—State health officials today confirmed nine new West Nile virus cases, urging Louisiana residents to continue to protect their health and Fight the Bite. No West Nile deaths occurred this week.

The State is experiencing its most active year for West Nile since 2002, which was the major outbreak year of the virus in Louisiana. So far, there have been 321 cases and 12 deaths from the disease reported this year.

"Even as we get later in the year, rates of West Nile cases have not slowed, and we need to keep up the fight against mosquito bites," said Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein. "If you're heading outdoors - to tailgate, to visit the pumpkin patch, to go for a walk and enjoy the fall weather - put mosquito repellant on first. Also, we continue having rain statewide, so everyone needs to be vigilant about emptying standing water to decrease mosquito activity."

Humans contract West Nile when they are bitten by mosquitoes infected with the virus. When people are infected with West Nile, the virus will affect them one of three ways. West Nile neuroinvasive disease is the most serious type, infecting the brain and spinal cord. Neuroinvasive disease can lead to death, paralysis and brain damage. The milder viral infection is West Nile fever, in which people experience flu-like symptoms. The majority of people who contract West Nile will be asymptomatic, which means they show no symptoms. These cases are typically detected through blood donations or in the course of other routine medical tests.

There are four new neuroinvasive disease cases reported this week, with one case each reported from East Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Terrebonne and Tangipahoa parishes. Three of these are newly reported cases, and one is a previously reported case that progressed into neuroinvasive disease.

There are five new West Nile Fever cases, with one case each reported from Beauregard, Bossier, East Baton Rouge, Iberia and Pointe Coupee parishes.

There was one new asymptomatic case reported this week, from Vernon Parish.

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http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/2670

[Giuseppe]

Re: Louisiana - West Nile Virus 2012 - 321 reported infections, 12 deaths

[Source: Louisiana Department of Health, full text: (LINK). Edited.]

Health Department Reports 17 West Nile Virus Cases, One Death

Friday, October 26, 2012 | Contact: Bureau of Media & Communications (225) 342-1532



Baton Rouge - State health officials today confirmed 17 new West Nile cases and one death from the virus, urging Louisiana residents to continue to Fight the Bite.

The State is experiencing its most active year for West Nile since 2002, which was the major outbreak year of the virus in Louisiana. So far, there have been 338 cases and 13 deaths from the disease reported this year.

"We keep hearing comments like 'West Nile is slowing down,' but the real message is 'West Nile is still a health threat,'" said Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein. "It may be getting later in the year, but we are still seeing new cases, and we continue to have parishes report their first human cases of West Nile. If you can still be bitten by mosquitoes, you can still get West Nile. Protect your health and Fight the Bite."

Humans contract West Nile when they are bitten by mosquitoes infected with the virus. When people are infected with West Nile, the virus will affect them one of three ways.

West Nile neuroinvasive disease is the most serious type, infecting the brain and spinal cord. Neuroinvasive disease can lead to death, paralysis and brain damage. The milder viral infection is West Nile fever, in which people experience flu-like symptoms. The majority of people who contract West Nile will be asymptomatic, which means they show no symptoms.

These cases are typically detected through blood donations or in the course of other routine medical tests.

There are five new neuroinvasive disease cases reported this week, with one each reported from Bossier, Calcasieu, Jefferson, Orleans and West Feliciana parishes.

There are 11 new West Nile Fever cases, from Ascension (1), Beauregard (1), Caddo (2), Calcasieu (1), DeSoto (1), East Baton Rouge (4) and Lafourche (1).

There was one new asymptomatic case reported this week, from Lafourche Parish.

DHH issues a weekly Arbovirus Surveillance Report that details cases detected thus far by parish, which is published here.

West Nile virus has been present in Louisiana since 2002, when the state experienced 328 cases and 24 deaths. For 10 years, state health officials have conducted robust surveillance year-round, which includes working with doctors, hospitals and health care providers around the state to track human cases and reminding people to be vigilant in avoiding mosquito bites.



Fight the Bite

Local mosquito control partners and abatement districts remain vigilant in keeping the population of infected mosquitos under control, but everyone has a personal responsibility to avoid mosquito bites.
Health officials recommend:

• If you will be outside, you should wear a mosquito repellent containing DEET. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that repellents should contain no more than 30% DEET when used on children. Insect repellents also are not recommended for children younger than 2 months. CDC recommends that you always follow the recommendations appearing on the product label when using repellent.
• People should be especially vigilant if they are outside at dawn and dusk. The mosquitoes that carry West Nile are most active at that time. But, people should take precautions against mosquitoes if they are outside at any time of day.
• Apply repellent on exposed skin and clothing. Do not apply under your clothes or on broken skin.
• To apply repellent to your face, spray on your hands and then rub on your face.
• Adults should always apply repellent to children.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors for long periods of time.
• Avoid perfumes and colognes when outdoors for extended periods of time.
• Make sure that your house has tight-fitting windows and doors, and that all screens are free of holes.

Another effective way to prevent mosquito bites is to drain stagnant water from around homes and property to prevent mosquitoes from breeding and swarming:

• Dispose of tin cans, ceramic pots and other unnecessary containers that have accumulated on your property. Turn over wheelbarrows, plastic wading pools or buckets that could collect water.
• Drill holes in the bottom of outdoor recycling containers. Drainage holes that are located on the container sides collect enough water for mosquitoes to breed.
• Clean clogged roof gutters yearly. They are often overlooked, but can produce millions of mosquitoes each season.
• Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish. Water gardens can become major mosquito producers if they are allowed to stagnate.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools that are not being used. An unattended swimming pool can produce enough mosquitoes to result in neighborhood-wide complaints. Be aware that mosquitoes may even breed in the water that collects on swimming pool covers.

For more information on West Nile activity in Louisiana and prevention tips, visit www.dhh.louisiana.gov/FighttheBite.

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