Four new mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus in Dallas County, according to a release from health officials, adding to the number of confirmed cases as mosquito season starts to ramp up in the area.
Since it first arrived in North Texas in summer 2002, West Nile virus has had a continued presence in North Texas that will now continue into the 2024 season.
Positive samples have been reported across Dallas County. The latest positive samples were in Mesquite and Irving.
What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus is most commonly spreadthrough the bite of an infected mosquito, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Only about 20% of people who are infected experience symptoms, such as fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says less than 1% of people who contract the virus will develop severe West Nile neuroinvasive disease, a condition that can lead to death or long-term disability. There is no vaccine or medicine available to battle West Nile, and some severely ill patients may need to be hospitalized.
“It can be very serious. It can lead to very serious infection and even death,” Philip Huang, director of the Dallas County Department of Health and Human Services, said. “It’s from something as seemingly innocuous as a mosquito bite. So it’s certainly, you know, a reason to avoid mosquito bites.”
What other cases have been found this year?
Tarrant County health officials announced in mid-May that they collected their first positive sample of West Nile virus in Arlington. Since then, Dallas County health officials announced positive samples were found in Cedar Hill (ZIP code 75104) on May 23, and in DeSoto (ZIP code 75115) on May 29. An online, interactive map from the DCHHS Mosquito Control shows these two areas have already been treated.
As of June 5, Dallas County has not reported any human cases of the virus.
In 2023, 18 Dallas residents were infected, three Irving residents were infected and one Grand Prairie resident was infected. There were also two deaths associated with West Nile in Dallas County in the 2023 season.
How do I avoid contracting West Nile virus?
West Nile virus season typically runs from April through mid-November, according to Tarrant County health officials. To prevent contracting West Nile virus, Huang recommends following the four D’s:
- DEET: Whenever outside, use insect repellents that have the active ingredient DEET or other EPA-registered repellents, and always follow label instructions.
- DRESS: Wear long, loose, and light-colored clothing outside.
- DRAIN: Drain or treat all standing water in and around your home or workplace where mosquitoes could lay eggs.
- DUSK to DAWN: Limit your time outdoors from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active.