The Green River District Health Department has confirmed one death from West Nile virus this year. In total, five cases have been reported in the district — three in Daviess County, including the death, and two in Henderson County, according to Public Health Director Clay Horton.
“This looks like a year when we’re going to see more cases than usual,” Horton said. “It’s not just happening here. Many other states are also reporting higher numbers of West Nile virus than in a typical year.”
So far in 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recorded 19 cases statewide.
Horton said West Nile virus is spread primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito. Many people never experience symptoms, but some develop fever, fatigue, headaches, body aches, or rashes. For those over 50 or with underlying health conditions, the illness can become severe and lead to neurological complications such as encephalitis,” he said.
“For most people, it causes very mild illness, but there can be severe cases and bad outcomes for some individuals,” Horton said.
Horton emphasized that the best defense against mosquito bites is prevention. He encouraged residents to wear insect repellent, eliminate standing water around homes, and wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk.
“We are at peak mosquito season,” Horton said. “This is the time of year when we expect the greatest population of mosquitoes, and people should be most alert about protecting themselves.”
The health department also advised residents to install or repair window and door screens and use air conditioning when possible.
West Nile virus was first detected in the United States about 20 years ago. Kentucky averages roughly 12 cases annually, with a record 23 cases in 2012. Since 2003, 12 cases have been reported in the Green River District, not including this year’s uptick.
There is no vaccine or specific treatment for the virus. Most people recover on their own, though severe cases may require hospitalization. Anyone experiencing symptoms is advised to contact a healthcare provider.
For more information, visit the CDC’s West Nile virus page at www.cdc.gov/westnile.
