Your Body Almanac

Louisiana

Gulf humidity, a long mosquito season and mold after floods.

Louisiana's humid heat lasts for months, mosquitoes spread West Nile virus across the state, and hurricanes and floods leave homes wet enough for mold.

01

Humid heat

Gulf air keeps humidity high, so sweat cannot cool you well and the heat index climbs far above the air temperature. Heat illness is a real risk during outdoor work and exercise from late spring into fall.

SourcesHeat Index (National Weather Service)About Heat and Your Health (CDC)
Stay safe in the heatAs neededOn hot days, drink water often, take breaks in the shade and plan hard work for the cooler parts of the day. Rehydrate when you sweatAs neededDrink regularly during hot work or long workouts, and add electrolytes when you sweat for more than two hours. Drink water through the dayDailyKeep a water bottle within reach and sip through the day instead of waiting until you are thirsty.
02

West Nile virus from mosquitoes

West Nile virus has been transmitted throughout Louisiana since it was first found there in 2002. Many infections are mild, but a small share become neuroinvasive disease, a severe illness of the brain and nervous system. In 2024 the state identified 38 such cases and three deaths.

SourcesLDH Reminds Residents to Protect Against West Nile Virus (Louisiana Department of Health)Data and Maps for West Nile (CDC)
Use insect repellentAs neededUse an EPA-registered repellent on exposed skin when mosquitoes or ticks are around.
03

Mold after storms and floods

Wet walls, carpet and furniture grow mold unless dried within 24 to 48 hours, and Louisiana's warm, damp air speeds it along. Mold can trigger congestion, coughing and asthma attacks. Never run a generator, grill or pressure washer indoors, in a garage or near windows. Carbon monoxide can kill within minutes. Stay out of floodwater.

SourcesA Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home (US EPA)Hurricane Safety (National Weather Service)What to Do to Protect Yourself During a Power Outage (CDC)
Wear a respirator for dust, fumes and smokeAs neededUse a properly fitted N95 or better respirator for dusty work and heavy wildfire smoke, and a cartridge respirator for gases and vapors. Wear eye protectionAs neededPut on safety glasses, goggles or a face shield for work, chores and hobbies that throw debris, chemicals or sparks.
04

Strong sun

The Gulf Coast sun runs high, with strong UV for much of the year that reflects off water. Skin damage adds up over years of outdoor work and fishing.

SourcesSun Safety Monthly Average UV Index (US EPA)Sun Safety (CDC)
Wear sunscreen every dayDailyPut broad-spectrum SPF 30+ on exposed skin each morning and reapply every two hours outdoors. Wear sun-protective clothingAs neededCover up with a wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses and tightly woven long sleeves when you are out in the sun. Check your skin for changesAs neededLook over your whole body on a regular schedule for new spots or moles that change, itch or bleed.

When to see a professional

Severe headache, stiff neck, confusion or weakness with fever in mosquito season needs urgent care.