In August, public health officials announced the first death from the virus in the 2024 season.
DENTON COUNTY, Texas — Four new cases of the West Nile Virus (WNV) have been confirmed in Denton County.
This brings the total number of cases to seven in the 2024 season, the Denton County Public Health (DCPH) said Wednesday. In August, the department announced its first death from the virus.
The recent cases are spread across all areas of the county which highlights the ongoing risk. The four people with confirmed cases lived in Little Elm, Roanoke, Fort Worth and Flower Mound, DCPH said.
The department said it will not release any personal information to protect patient confidentiality.
WNV is almost always transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. The health department urges residents to remain vigilant against mosquito bites.
“These straightforward steps are effective ways to safeguard yourself and your community from mosquito-borne diseases,” said Juan Rodriguez, DCPH Assistant Director and Chief Epidemiologist.
- Drain standing water in your yard and neighborhood to minimize mosquito breeding sites such as bird baths, flowerpots, and clogged rain gutters. Consider the use of BTI briquettes, often called mosquito dunks, in standing water that cannot be eliminated.
- Dress in long sleeves and pants when you are outside and spray thin clothing with repellent.
- Defend yourself by using EPA-registered repellent. Check for ingredients like DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
For more information including mosquito maps, the latest news and facts about WNV visit the DCPH West Nile Virus website at DentonCounty.gov/WNV.