Louisiana Zika Cases Rise To 26

Although the recent Louisiana floods have actually helped decrease our mosquito population, the Louisiana Department of Health has confirmed three additional cases of the Zika virus.

KATC reports Louisiana epidemiologist Dr. Raoult Ratard says "these West Nile infections all occurred before the recent flooding. I do not expect that we will see as many cases as we’ve seen in past as we are having a late start to the time of the year when we normally begin to see people getting West Nile virus infections”.

Louisiana's 26 Zika virus cases are all travel related. The Department of Health says there are no known locally transmitted cases here. Local transmission occurs when an infected mosquito in the area bites another person in the area and transmits the virus.

The CDC is working closely with Louisiana state and local officials to monitor the situation closely.

From KATC -

All travelers to areas where Zika virus is active should be aware and take the following steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites:

• Use an EPA-approved insect repellent.
• Wear light-colored, long sleeves and pants.
• Sleep under a mosquito net if you are outdoors or in an area without door and window screens.