The State of Louisiana is experiencing its highest number of West Nile cases in years, with 215 reported infections and 10 deaths so far this year.
The Department of Health and Hospitals confirmed on Friday 39 new human cases this week. Officials cite the most likely causes as standing water left behind by Hurricane Isaac and the cooler fall weather attracting people outdoors.
"Everyone needs to be aware of the threat of West Nile virus ...," DHH Sec. Bruce Greenstein says. "Put on repellant before you go outside, dress appropriately, and empty standing water around your home."
The virus affects those infected in one of three ways, the most deadly being the type that infects the brain and spinal cord, which can lead to death, paralysis and brain damage.
The milder viral infection is West Nile Fever, in which people experience flu-like symptoms. Most people who contract the virus will show no symptoms.
Caddo Parish reported this week one case of the most serious type and one case of the milder infection. DeSoto Parish reported one case of the milder infection.
The most active year for West Nile cases in Louisiana was 2002, when the state experienced 328 cases and 24 deaths.
Meanwhile, Texas health officials have confirmed 1,238 human cases of West Nile this year, including 57 deaths.
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