The Lake County Health Department said Thursday “several” of its mosquito trap samples came back positive for the West Nile Virus after testing was done by the Indiana Department of Health.
“The detection of West Nile virus in our area underscores the importance of taking simple, yet effective, precautions,” a spokesperson said in a statement. “We encourage everyone to follow our recommended guidelines to reduce mosquito exposure and help control the mosquito population.”
It encouraged residents to minimize the risk of infection by pouring out standing water, using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, or staying inside to avoid mosquitoes.
About 2 in 10 people infected with West Nile virus develop symptoms, which can include fever and swelling of the brain. About 1 in 10 people who develop severe symptoms die. There have been 98 West Nile cases so far this year. West Nile virus was first reported in the U.S. in 1999 in New York. It gradually spread across the country. In 2003, there were nearly 10,000 cases.
Lake County is one of 28 counties in Indiana to have positive trap tests so far in 2025, according to the IDOH’s Mosquito-Borne Illness Dashboard. Only two human cases have been reported so far — in DeKalb and Vanderburgh counties.
More information is available on the county health department’s website.
The Associated Press contributed.
