Ripley Co. encephalitis case confirmed

RIPLEY COUNTY, Ind. (Herald-Tribune) - One case of encephalitis in Ripley County has been confirmed.

A positive mosquito sampling for the “treehole mosquito” has been identified and one case of La Crosse encephalitis has been confirmed, according to the Ripley County Health Department, 24-Hour News 8’s news partner The Herald-Tribune reports.

La Crosse encephalitis virus (LACV) is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected treehole mosquito. It is not transmitted directly from person to person.

Most cases occur in the upper Midwest, mid-Atlantic and southeastern states.

Many infected people have no apparent symptoms. Initial symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and tiredness. 

Some victims develop severe neuroinvasive disease, which affects the nervous system. Severe LACV disease often involves encephalitis (a brain inflammation) and can include seizures, coma and paralysis.

Severe disease is most often in children under 16. Rare cases can result in long-term disability or death.

There is no specific treatment for LACV infection. Care is based on symptoms.

Mosquitoes that spread LACV are most active during the day.