Wayne County Health Department confirms La Crosse virus case, urges mosquito precautions

The Wayne County Health Department reported a human case of La Crosse virus in a Wayne County resident. The department has had two confirmed cases and seven suspected cases this year. All patients have been treated and are recuperating at home or have recovered.

La Crosse virus is a mosquito-borne illness primarily transmitted by the Aedes triseriatus (Eastern treehole mosquito), which is commonly found in wooded areas. Ohio reports more human cases of La Crosse virus than any other state, averaging about 20 cases per year.

Symptoms and risk

Many people infected with La Crosse virus have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they typically begin five to 15 days after a mosquito bite and may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting and lethargy.

Severe illness, most often in children younger than 16, may involve seizures, coma, paralysis and neurologic complications after recovery.

Death is rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for La Crosse virus infection.

Prevention tips

Residents are encouraged to take the following steps to prevent mosquito bites and reduce mosquito populations:

—Use EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors.

—Wear long sleeves, long pants and socks when weather permits.

—Repair or install screens on windows and doors.

—Use air-conditioning if available.

—Eliminate standing water from containers such as flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet dishes, tires and birdbaths.

—Fill tree holes with dirt or sand to prevent mosquito breeding.

Local response

Wayne County Health Department continues mosquito surveillance and control efforts including trapping, testing, larviciding and spraying when necessary.

For more information on mosquito-borne diseases and prevention, visit odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/zoonotic-disease-program/diseases/lacrosse-virus.