KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Knox County Health Department said six cases of La Crosse virus were reported in the last nine weeks.
All cases reported are in kids under the age of 12 and have required hospitalization, according to KCHD.
La Crosse virus is a mosquito-borne infection that doesn't cause symptoms in most people. However, if symptoms do develop they can include fever, headache, nausea and vomiting. Rarely, people can develop severe diseases including brain inflammation that can lead to major neurologic complications.
Preventing or reducing mosquito bites is the best way to avoid the virus. The mosquitoes responsible for the virus primarily bite during dawn and dusk in wooded areas.
KCHD said you can also prevent bites by:
- Using insect repellents
- Treat clothes with repellents
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants if working in grassy areas
- Cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting
- Reduce standing water on the property by turning over items that hold water
