How does Calcasieu Parish monitor for the presence of mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile Virus, St. Louis Encephalitis, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis?

Calcasieu Parish Mosquito Control consistently tests mosquitoes during the months of March- November for the presence of mosquito transmitted viruses. All samples are tested by the Louisiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Lab (LADDL) located on the Louisiana State University campus using RT-PCR to detect the presence of viral RNA. When mosquitoes test positive, control of adult mosquitoes are implemented in the area where positive mosquitoes were collected. Action is taken as soon as possible to avoid the spread of the disease by mosquitoes. 

In the event of a human case of West Nile Virus, St. Louis Encephalitis, or Eastern Equine Encephalitis in our Parish, the district is notified by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals. These cases quickly prompt control of adult mosquitoes in the surrounding areas to avoid the spread of the virus.

To see a table of Human West Nile cases from 2002-2020, click HERE.

Placement of a mosquito surveillance trap.		Sorting mosquitoes from trap collections.		Mosquito samples being placed in a vial for testing.