Lake County Health Department Confirms West Nile Virus Presence
CROWN POINT, IN – The Lake County Health Department today announced it has received confirmation from the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) that several of its mosquito surveillance trap samples tested positive for West Nile virus.
This confirmation serves as a cautionary alert to the public regarding the potential presence of West Nile virus in Lake County. The Health Department urges all residents to take proactive measures to protect themselves and minimize the risk of infection.
“The detection of West Nile virus in our area underscores the importance of taking simple, yet effective, precautions,” said a spokesperson for the Lake County Health Department. “We encourage everyone to follow our recommended guidelines to reduce mosquito exposure and help control the mosquito population.”
The Lake County Health Department advises the following precautionary measures:
· Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Regularly empty containers such as buckets, birdbaths, pet bowls, and clogged gutters.
· Use Mosquito Repellent: When engaging in outdoor activities, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active, apply EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535.
· Dress Protectively: When outdoors, particularly in natural areas or while gardening, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to reduce exposed skin.
The Lake County Health Department will continue its surveillance efforts and provide updates to the community as needed. For more information on West Nile virus and mosquito bite prevention, please visit the Lake County Health Department website or the Indiana Department of Health website.
