News Summary
The Louisiana Department of Health has reported the first human case of West Nile virus for 2023 in Orleans Parish. The infected individual contracted the severe neuroinvasive form of the virus, reflecting growing health concerns about mosquito-borne illnesses in the area. Health officials are advising the public to take precautions against mosquito bites, as significant mosquito activity has been detected across the state. Mosquito control efforts are ongoing, with regular spraying scheduled in response to the rising mosquito population.
New Orleans, Louisiana — The Louisiana Department of Health has confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus in Orleans Parish for 2023. The infected resident has contracted the neuroinvasive form of West Nile virus, the most severe type associated with the disease. This case highlights rising health concerns about mosquito-borne illnesses in the area.
West Nile virus is typically spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus cycles between wild birds and mosquitoes, with the southern house mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus, being the main vector in the New Orleans region. This species is particularly active after nightfall, increasing the risk of mosquito bites during those hours.
In 2023, the Louisiana Department of Health reported significant mosquito activity across the state, with a total of 642 mosquito pools testing positive for West Nile virus. Of these, 199 pools were identified in Orleans Parish alone. Health data further indicates that while most individuals infected with the virus show no symptoms, approximately 20% may develop West Nile fever. This condition is usually characterized by flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rashes.
More severe cases of West Nile virus can progress to neuroinvasive disease, which is marked by severe symptoms like high fever, stiff neck, disorientation, muscle weakness, paralysis, and in extreme cases, coma or death. Notably, individuals over the age of 65 or those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for these severe outcomes.
Last year, Louisiana documented 617 positive mosquito pools statewide, with only four located in New Orleans. Additionally, three deaths were reported due to the virus during the same period. As a precautionary measure, the city has been actively engaged in mosquito control efforts, including spraying multiple times per week in response to increased mosquito activity. The next spray mission is scheduled for Friday night, targeting the neighborhoods of Gentilly, New Orleans East, and Lakeview from 8:45 p.m. to midnight.
Health officials advise residents to take preventive measures to minimize their risk of contracting West Nile virus. Recommendations include limiting outdoor activities between dusk and dawn, utilizing EPA-approved insect repellents while outdoors, and ensuring that homes have screens on windows and doors to block mosquito entry. Effective insect repellents contain ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Residents are encouraged to report any mosquito-related concerns. They can do this by calling 311, submitting a request at nola311.org, or emailing mosquitocontrol@nola.gov. By remaining vigilant and taking necessary precautions, the community can work towards reducing the risks associated with West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.
This year’s report serves as a stark reminder of the potential health threats posed by mosquito-borne illnesses in the region. As officials continue to monitor the situation, it remains crucial for residents to stay informed and proactive in protecting their health during the heightened mosquito season.
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Additional Resources
- WWLTV: First human case of West Nile detected in New Orleans
- Google Search: West Nile virus
- WDSU: Orleans Parish first human case of West Nile virus
- Wikipedia: West Nile virus
- NOLA: New Orleans West Nile neuroinvasive
- Encyclopedia Britannica: West Nile virus
- Fox8 Live: First West Nile virus case confirmed in New Orleans
- Google News: West Nile virus New Orleans
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.
