Residents living in Destrehan, Norco and Montz have been warned that mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus were discovered in their communities in May.
Entomologist Steven G. Pavlovich says that he set traps to catch the mosquitoes and sent them off to the state for inspection. Some in Ormond, Montz and Norco have tested positive for the West Nile Virus and Encephalitis.
“We were informed on May 28, by the state that mosquitoes in Ormond, Norco and Montz contained the West Nile Virus,” he said.
Since that time Pavlovich says spraying has increased in those areas and he even notified neighbors living in those communities by handing out information.
“We urge residents to take precaution and keep their yards free from any type of items that collect water,” he said. “Water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.”
Pavlovich says that children are out of school now and even their toys can collect water.
“Toys should be picked up and put away,” he said. “Boats that are left with the plugs in collect leaves and water, which is also a great breeding ground for mosquitoes.”
Pavlovich urges residents to go to the hospital if they start to experience flu like symptoms after being bitten by mosquitoes.
Symptoms of the most serious illness resulting from West Nile – West Nile Encephalitis – include flu-like symptoms, a decreased level of consciousness and swollen lymph nodes. Approximately 80 percent of those infected with the virus will not show any symptoms, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Residents are urged to contact their physicians if they develop flu-like symptoms 3 to 14 days after a mosquito bite.
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