Louisville Officials Warn Mosquitoes and Ticks Remain Active into Fall, Urge Continued Precautions
Public health officials in Louisville, Kentucky, are cautioning residents that mosquitoes and ticks remain active well into the fall season, despite cooler temperatures. Connie Mendel, director and chief health strategist at the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness, stated that mosquitoes can stay active until the first significant frost and some can endure even longer, typically becoming dormant when temperatures consistently drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Kentucky's recent warm weather, with daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s, has led to increased mosquito activity. While overall mosquito populations are starting to decrease, those carrying West Nile virus are still present and continue to bite. Additionally, fall is a prime time for ticks, as fallen leaves and increased ground cover provide hiding places for them, posing a risk to individuals enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and camping.