Lexington, Kentucky, October 3, 2025
News Summary
The Kentucky Department for Public Health has issued a statewide Health Alert due to a rise in mosquito-borne illnesses, specifically West Nile Virus. With 19 reported cases and one death this year, Lexington-Fayette County has seen significant hospitalizations among affected individuals. The public is urged to take precautionary measures against mosquito bites as health officials combat the increasing mosquito population through spraying and community engagement. Awareness and preventive strategies are essential to mitigate risks associated with these viruses.
Lexington, Kentucky Faces Rising Threat of West Nile Virus
The Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) has issued a statewide Health Alert in response to a marked increase in mosquito-borne illnesses, notably the West Nile Virus (WNV) and the La Crosse virus. As of now, Kentucky has recorded 19 cases of West Nile Virus this year, including one death, marking a significant rise compared to the typical seven cases reported in previous years.
Among the recent WNV cases, the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department (LFCHD) has confirmed four human cases since late August, all of which necessitated hospitalization. The affected patients, aged between 30 and 77 years, reported spending considerable time outdoors and experiencing mosquito bites in various ZIP codes, including 40502, 40505, and 40509.
In addition to the cases of West Nile Virus, the KDPH has confirmed two cases of the La Crosse virus, with two suspected cases currently under investigation. Notably, between 2003 and 2024, Kentucky has historically reported a total of only 11 cases of La Crosse virus.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Symptoms of West Nile Virus can range from mild to severe and often develop within three to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Common symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, swollen lymph glands, neck stiffness, tremors, vision loss, muscle weakness, or a rash. While milder symptoms may resolve without treatment, severe symptoms such as debilitating headaches or confusion require immediate medical attention.
Preventative Measures and Response
In light of the rising cases, the KDPH is urging residents to take precautionary measures against mosquito bites. Recommendations include using EPA-approved insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, repairing screens on windows and doors, and removing any standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding.
To combat the increasing mosquito population, LFCHD has initiated multiple rounds of mosquito spraying in response to the confirmed cases. The department conducts weekly mosquito trapping across six locations to monitor populations, targeting areas with higher numbers for spraying. Applications of Duet, a pesticide, are performed during early morning and evening hours, using low doses of approximately 0.6 ounces per acre, and are contingent on specific weather conditions, which include wind speeds below 10 mph and no rain or dense fog.
Residents are encouraged to report instances of standing water or mosquito problems by contacting LFCHD’s Environmental Health and Protection office at (859) 231-9791.
Conclusion
The sharp increase in West Nile Virus cases and the alarming presence of La Crosse virus underscore the importance of public vigilance during mosquito season. By adhering to recommended preventive tactics and remaining aware of symptoms, residents can help protect themselves and their communities from these mosquito-borne illnesses.
FAQ
What is West Nile Virus?
West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause severe flu-like symptoms, and in some cases, it can lead to more serious neurological diseases.
What should I do if I suspect I have West Nile Virus?
If you experience severe symptoms such as intense headaches or confusion, seek immediate medical attention. Otherwise, milder symptoms can often resolve on their own.
How can I prevent mosquito bites?
To minimize mosquito bites, use EPA-approved insect repellents, wear long sleeves and pants, repair screens on windows and doors, and eliminate any standing water around your home.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total West Nile Virus Cases in Kentucky 2023 | 19 |
| La Crosse Virus Cases | 2 confirmed, 2 suspected |
| Hospitalization of WNV Cases in Fayette County | 4 cases |
| Typical Annual Cases of WNV | 7 |
| Affected Age Range in Fayette County | 30 to 77 years |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Warm and Dry Autumn Forecast for Central and Eastern Kentucky
Warm Weather Forecast for Lexington, KY This Week
Lexington Health Department Initiates Mosquito Spraying Due to West Nile Virus Cases
Lexington Reports First Case of West Nile Virus
Additional Resources
- WKYT News
- Wikipedia: West Nile Virus
- Kentucky Today
- Google Search: West Nile Virus Kentucky
- Fox 56 News
- Google Scholar: West Nile Virus Kentucky
- LEX18 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: West Nile Virus
- Spectrum News
- Google News: West Nile Virus Kentucky
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, 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 Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
