News Summary
The Louisiana Department of Health has reported the first human case of West Nile virus in Orleans Parish for 2023. The affected individual has been diagnosed with the neuroinvasive subtype of the virus, prompting concerns as the state deals with increased mosquito activity. Multiple cases have been documented in various parishes, with health officials stressing the importance of mosquito control and preventative measures to reduce further infections.
New Orleans – The Louisiana Department of Health has confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus for 2023 in Orleans Parish. The affected individual has been diagnosed with the neuroinvasive form of the virus, which is the most severe and dangerous subtype. This case marks a serious concern as Louisiana reports heightened mosquito activity related to West Nile virus, with 642 mosquito pools testing positive across the state, including 199 in Orleans Parish.
In addition to the case in Orleans Parish, nine other residents in various parishes, including Caddo, East Baton Rouge, Livingston, St. Tammany, and Washington, have also been diagnosed with the neuroinvasive form of West Nile virus this year. The neuroinvasive form of the virus can lead to serious health complications, particularly among the elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The West Nile virus cycles between wild birds and mosquitoes; humans become infected through the bite of an infected mosquito. The primary carrier of the virus in New Orleans is the southern house mosquito, known scientifically as Culex quinquefasciatus. These mosquitoes are most active after dark and thrive in polluted water often found in urban stormwater systems, ditches, and aging septic systems.
West Nile virus first appeared in Louisiana in 2002 and has since grown to be the leading cause of mosquito-borne diseases in the United States. The risk typically peaks during warmer months when mosquito populations are at their highest. While many infections are asymptomatic, approximately 20% of individuals may develop West Nile fever. Symptoms of West Nile fever include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rashes. Severe cases can result in neuroinvasive disease, manifesting as high fever, stiff neck, disorientation, muscle weakness, paralysis, coma, and even death. These severe symptoms may persist for weeks and potentially cause permanent damage.
In 2022, the Louisiana Department of Health reported 617 positive mosquito pools statewide, with only four detected in New Orleans. The state also saw three deaths attributed to the virus last year, underscoring the importance of vigilance and mosquito control efforts.
In light of the increased mosquito activity and human cases, the City of New Orleans has been proactive in combating the issue through regular spraying operations. Spraying is conducted several times a week, targeting areas known for high mosquito populations. The next spraying mission is scheduled from 8:45 p.m. to midnight on Friday in neighborhoods including Gentilly, New Orleans East, and Lakeview.
Louisiana’s warm climate and geography make it one of the most mosquito-prone regions in the nation, favored by frequent rainfall, high humidity, and clay-heavy soils that retain water. These conditions contribute to rapid mosquito reproduction, with complete life cycles possible in as little as five days during warm weather.
Residents are urged to help mitigate mosquito breeding by eliminating standing water, as even small amounts, such as that found in bottle caps, can be sufficient for egg laying. Additionally, individuals should employ preventative measures, such as using EPA-registered mosquito repellents containing active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Limiting outdoor activities between dusk and dawn, utilizing air conditioning, or sitting in the airflow of a fan when outdoors are also recommended safety measures.
For reporting mosquito-related concerns, residents have the option to call 311, submit a request at nola311.org, email mosquitocontrol@nola.gov, or call (504) 658-2400. The health and safety of the community depend on collective efforts to combat the spread of West Nile virus as the summer progresses.
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HERE Resources
First Human Case of West Nile Virus Reported in New Orleans
Additional Resources
- WDSU: Orleans Parish First Human Case of West Nile Virus
- Wikipedia: West Nile Virus
- Fox 8: Mosquito Spraying Underway in New Orleans
- Google Search: West Nile Virus
- WGNO: Human Case of West Nile Virus Detected
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mosquito
- NOLA: New Orleans West Nile Neuroinvasive Case
- Google News: West Nile Virus Case
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
