Thursday, March 28, 2024

Denton County reports first human case of West Nile Virus in 2018

Denton County Public Health reported Thursday the first human case of West Nile Virus in Denton County this year.

The resident lives in Carrollton and was diagnosed with West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease, according to DCPH.

“Although the amount of positive mosquito traps have been lower this year, West Nile Virus is present within Denton County,” states Juan Rodriguez, DCPH Assistant Director and Chief Epidemiologist.  “We continue to conduct arboviral surveillance through October, as the threat of mosquito-borne illness remains.”

DCPH advises residents to take the following steps to minimize risk of contracting WNV:

  • 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 approved repellent.  Check for ingredients like DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.

Visit the DCPH West Nile Virus website for additional information including mosquito maps, latest news, and facts about WNV.

Mark Smith
Mark Smith
Mark Smith is the Digital Editor of The Cross Timbers Gazette.

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