ALLEN COUNTY, Ind. (WLKI)- A human case of West Nile virus has been detected in Allen County as state health officials continue monitoring mosquito-borne illnesses across Indiana.
According to the Indiana Department of Health, the human case was reported Friday. No additional information about the patient or the severity of the illness was released.
The report follows the detection of West Nile virus in mosquito pools across more than 30 Indiana counties. The department began its annual mosquito-borne illness testing in early July.
Health officials said mosquitoes remain active as long as temperatures stay above 60 degrees. As a result, the risk of mosquito bites and the potential transmission of West Nile virus can continue into the fall and until colder temperatures arrive.
The Indiana Department of Health is encouraging residents to take steps to reduce their exposure to mosquitoes.
Recommended precautions include using an insect repellent containing DEET and limiting exposed skin when spending time outdoors. Residents are also advised to remove standing water from their properties, as unattended water can serve as a breeding site for mosquitoes.
Potential breeding areas may include buckets, flowerpots, birdbaths, clogged gutters and other outdoor containers that collect water. Regularly emptying or replacing the water can help reduce local mosquito populations.
The department continues to track West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses through its statewide surveillance program.
Information about preventing mosquito bites and mosquito breeding, along with updated statewide surveillance data, is available on the Indiana Department of Health's website.