CHILLICOTHE — Health officials have confirmed the first human case of La Crosse virus in Ross County this year.

The Ross County Health District (RCHD) announced the case this week, noting that the virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While most people show no symptoms, children under 16 are more likely to develop severe illness, according to RCHD Public Health Nursing Director Morgan Kelley. The virus cannot spread from person to person.

The Eastern Treehole mosquito, which often breeds in tree cavities and water-filled containers such as old tires, is the primary carrier of La Crosse virus, said Kelly Spindler, RCHD Director of Environmental Health. She emphasized the importance of reducing breeding sites to limit mosquito-borne diseases.

La Crosse

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