The Louisiana Department of Health has reported its first human case of West Nile this year.
The case was confirmed in a Ouachita Parish resident.
West Nile virus has been actively spreading throughout Louisiana since its first detection in the state in 2002. In 2025, there were 86 confirmed human cases of WNV in Louisiana, including four deaths.
West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes and can cause mild to severe illnesses. While most people infected with West Nile virus develop no symptoms, about 20% of infected people develop West Nile fever. West Nile fever is a flu-like illness with symptoms that can include fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, and rashes, according to the Louisiana Department of Health.
Below are tips on how to protect yourself from contracting West Nile.
Protect yourself
- Use repellents containing Environmental Protection Agency-registered active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow product instructions when using repellents.
- When possible, limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Use air conditioning or sit in the airflow of a fan when outdoors.
- Wear an EPA-registered mosquito repellent to exposed skin when spending time outdoors and always follow label instructions. Do not apply under clothing or on broken skin.
- If using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second.
- Keep mosquitoes out of your home by making sure windows and doors close tightly and screens are free of holes.
Report mosquito issues
New Orleans residents can report mosquito-related concerns using one of the following methods:
- Call 311 to make a service request
- Submit a service request online: https://nola311.org/service-request/
- Email NOMTRCB: mosquitocontrol@nola.gov
- Call NOMTRCB: 504-658-2400
READ MORE:The first human case of West Nile for 2026 has been reported. What you need to know
