Protect Yourself as Mosquito Season Ramps Up in WNC

WNC --  As summer rains drench Western North Carolina and temperatures climb, local officials are sounding the alarm: mosquito populations are on the rise, and with them, the risk of La Crosse encephalitis, a serious virus spread by infected mosquitoes.

In a recent press release from Haywood County government, residents were urged to take immediate precautions to protect themselves and their families. The message is clear: this isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a health threat.

What Is La Crosse Virus?
La Crosse virus (LACV) is a mosquito-borne virus that causes La Crosse encephalitis, a disease that inflames the brain. While it can infect people of all ages, children under 16 are most commonly affected and are at higher risk of severe illness.

Most people infected show mild or no symptoms, but in more serious cases, it can lead to:

Headache

Fever

Nausea and vomiting

Seizures

Disorientation or coma

There is no specific treatment for La Crosse encephalitis. The best protection? Prevention.

How to Protect Yourself
Local health officials recommend the following easy but effective steps to help prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of La Crosse Virus:

✅ Use EPA-approved mosquito repellent when spending time outdoors
✅ Wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
✅ Dump standing water from birdbaths, tires, buckets, gutters, and flower pots—mosquitoes lay eggs in still water
✅ Install or repair window and door screens to keep bugs out of your home

🎨 Community Collaboration Through Art
This public health campaign was also powered by a creative force—thanks to the 2024/2025 Global One Health Scholars at NC State University, whose original artwork has been featured throughout this effort to raise awareness.

A big shoutout to the talented contributors:

🎨 Abigail Finch
🎨 Sascha Godfrey
🎨 Cristina Payst
🎨 Valeria Rayo-Solano
🎨 Ava Smith
🎨 Rida Tariq
🎨 Kara Vold

Their visual work helps translate a scientific warning into a powerful community message that resonates with families across the region.

Why This Matters in WNC

La Crosse Virus is named after La Crosse, Wisconsin, but the virus is endemic right here in the southern Appalachian region, including Western North Carolina. In fact, our state reports some of the highest numbers of La Crosse virus cases in the nation every year.

It’s one more reason why folks who love the outdoors—whether you’re hiking, camping, gardening, or just relaxing on the porch—need to take mosquito prevention seriously.

Final Word

Haywood County and local public health officials are doing their part. Now it's up to us, the community, to stay informed and take action. Western North Carolina is one of the most beautiful places in the country—let’s keep it safe and healthy too.

Stay protected. Stay outdoors. Stay smart.

WNCTimes

Image: WNCTimes