FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 17, 2003) – A second case of West Nile virus has been reported in Barren County, giving Kentucky six human cases for the year.

            The Barren County patient was hospitalized with West Nile fever, but has recovered.  The other human cases have been reported in Greenup, Laurel, Grant, Barren and Hart counties.

            Kentuckians should continue taking precautions for West Nile Virus. Comprehensive listings for positive birds, horses and mosquito pools by county can be found on the Department for Public Health website at http://chs.ky.gov/publichealth/west_nile_virus.htm.

Here are some things Kentuckians can do to help stop the spread of mosquitoes and West Nile Virus:

·        Drain and remove any container that could hold water – old tires, toys and flowerpots. Anywhere water collects may be a potential breeding place for mosquitoes.

·        Change water every week in birdbaths, wading pools, watering troughs and pet bowls. Fill in puddles.

·        Check gutters to make sure they are clean and are draining.

·        Repair or replace window and door screens to keep bugs out.

·        Keep ponds free of vegetation and stock with fish.

·        Dress appropriately – wear light-colored long sleeves and pants and a hat when you plan to be out at dawn and dusk.

·        Use mosquito repellent and carefully follow directions. Use repellent with DEET and note special directions for young children.

·        Some property owners may want to use larvacide in bodies of water such as ponds. These agents prevent the mosquitoes from hatching.

A website with information from state agencies on West Nile is available at  www.westnile.ky.gov

Citizens with questions about West Nile can also call the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Public Response Service toll free at (888)-246-2675 (English), (888)246-2857 (Spanish) and (866)874-2646 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-11 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 

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