Lafayette City Parish government says recent West Nile Virus surveillance data throughout the parish shows an outbreak of the mosquito-borne disease.

Scientific test results from dead birds, chickens and mosquito pools show that Lafayette Parish has a high level of West Nile Virus this year.

Lafayette Consolidated Government says as a result of data received from the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, they are requesting that Mosquito Control Contractors intensify sampling and preventive spraying.

They are hoping these measures will minimize and prevent the spillover of West Nile Virus into the human population of Lafayette Parish.

Spraying will be done mornings and evenings seven days a week.  The situation will be monitored, and only if necessary, aerial spraying will be utilized.

You can play a large role in reducing the chances of getting West Nile Virus by taking precautions.  You should observe the 5 "D's":

  •  DRAINAGE-Mosquitoes can breed in something as small as a bottle cap of water. Make sure you dump out all standing water in containers, toys, tarps, boats, etc.
  •  DEET-Use mosquito repellant containing DEET, and only as product directs.
  •  DUSK-Peak period of activity.
  •  DAWN-Peak period of activity.
  •  DRESS-Wear loose, light colored clothing with long sleeves and long pants when you cannot avoid being out when mosquitoes are present.


Members of the public who encounter special problems or need assistance are asked to call the Mosquito Control Hotline at (337)593-0123. This line is monitored daily, seven days a week.

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