Denton County Public Health (DCPH) reported its fifth human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) for 2016 in Denton County. The resident lives in unincorporated Denton County near Northlake and was diagnosed with West Nile Fever.
Out of the five human cases reported so far, three were West Nile Fever and two were the more-serious neuroinvasive strain.
Chief Epidemiologist Juan Rodriguez stressed that residents can continue to reduce their risks of acquiring WNV.
“Individuals can help prevent mosquito bites by draining standing water around their homes, dressing appropriately and using DEET or other EPA-approved repellents,” Rodriguez said.
Residents should take the following steps to reduce their risk of getting WNV:
- Drain standing water around their homes to reduce mosquito breeding grounds. Consider use of BTI briquettes (or mosquito dunks) in water that cannot be drained, such as small ponds and drinking troughs.
- Be aware of mosquitoes during times that they are active, Dawn, Daytime, Dusk and evening hours.
- Apply an insect repellent that contains DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) to exposed skin and to clothing when outdoors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommends Picaridin (KBR 3023).
- Dress in pants and long sleeves when outside and/or wear permethrin-treated clothing.
Visit the DCPH West Nile Virus website for more information, including tips for reducing mosquitoes around the home, frequently asked questions, and printable flyers and posters.
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