West Nile case reported in Louisville, health officials say

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Jefferson County has its first confirmed case of West Nile virus in 2025, according to health officials.

On Friday, Aug. 8, UofL Health stated the case was reported by the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness.

No further details have been shared at this time.

According to health officials, 80% of those infected never develop symptoms, however, serious complications are possible in roughly one in 150 cases.

Symptoms of severe illness from West Nile can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis, according to health officials. Severe illness can happen in any age, however, officials say people 60 years and older are at a greater risk.

In addition, those with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease and those who receive organ transplants are at a greater risk, health officials say.

The following steps can be taken to prevent the infection, according to UofL Health:

• Use insect repellent, particularly those containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products for longer lasting protection.
• Wear long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors when possible.
• Take extra care during peak mosquito biting hours of early morning and dusk.

To follow updates from the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness, click here.