Where Acadiana Comes To Talk

There was a time when the West Nile Virus had Louisiana residents very concerned every time they saw a mosquito.

I remember in the early 2000's when I was playing football in high school that we were very mindful of mosquitoes and how a bite could potentially bring on the West Nile Virus or some other nasty disease that these insects carry. Even when the practice fields were sprayed, many of us still became a little nervous every time we heard a certain buzz.

Like I have, some of you probably are wondering "What purpose do mosquitoes serve?" Well, they may be annoying pests but they are very important in the ecological food chain as they serve as food for fish and for birds. That's according to smithsosonianmag.com, who also points out that some species are important pollinators as well.

Back to West Nile Disease. The neuroinvasive version of it is the most serious. It can lead to death, paralysis and even brain damage. Four years ago, the concern was very high across the state of Louisiana as the Bayou State had the highest rate of the virus in the U.S. 2018 was also the last time that the disease was reported in Acadiana.

Well, the Louisiana Department of Health is confirming one human case of the potentially fatal disease in the Acadiana region this season. Statewide, 14 cases of the neuroinvasive viral disease have turned up. Two people have died.

“This is shaping up to be a very challenging West Nile season and we are entering the peak time for transmission in our state,” said Region 4 Medical Director Dr. Tina Stefanksi in the LDH article. “That is why it is so important for residents to please remember to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites whenever you are participating in outdoor activities.”

Fortunately, LDH says 80% of human cases are asymptomatic but West Nile Virus still causes some nasty health issues, if it doesn't kill you.

The following are tips provided by LDH to protect yourself against the West Nile Virus and mosquitoes in general: