DENTON, TX, Sept. 8, 2026 – The City of Denton is reporting its second human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) this season. While this is the City’s second human case of West Nile Virus this season, it is the first case to present as neuroinvasive disease. In response, the City will remain at Risk Level 2, which reflects a Mosquito Alert and the confirmation of WNV-positive mosquitoes within the community.
At Risk Level 2, the City will continue conducting routine surveys of adult mosquitoes. Mosquitoes collected through these surveys will be identified to the species level and screened for the presence of the virus.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, which acquires the virus when feeding on infected birds. While many people who are infected do not develop symptoms, West Nile Virus can cause serious illness and, in some cases, death. While the risk of human illness is moderate to high, individuals over age 50 and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe illness if infected with West Nile Virus. Most people infected with the virus do not develop symptoms and recover without medical treatment. However, symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, drowsiness, stiff neck, vision problems, body tremors, confusion, memory loss, and seizures. Anyone experiencing concerning or severe symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Residents are urged to take precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites:
- Eliminatestanding water: Remove standing water around your home, as it serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Common sites include old tires, flowerpots, and clogged rain gutters.
- Avoid outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours: Stay indoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Dress appropriately: Wear long sleeves and long pants when outside.
- Use insect repellent: Apply repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus whenever outdoors.
The City offers a limited supply of Bti Briquettes, which kill mosquito larvae. Proof of residency is required (driver’s license or City of Denton utility bill), with a limit of two per resident. Residents can pick up the Bti Briquettes from the following distribution locations:
- Customer Service, 601 E. Hickory St., Ste F, Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. to noon.
- City of Denton Composting, 1100 S. Mayhill Rd., Tuesday-Saturday, 7 a.m. – 3p.m.
For more information on prevention and safety tips, visit www.cityofdenton.com/westnile.
Contact: Kayla Herrod, (940) 349-7463, [email protected]
(About Denton) Denton is a community like no other – we’re welcoming, innovative, creative, diverse, unique and authentic. The City is a vibrant and growing community with many opportunities, no matter what your interest or passion. You’re free to be whoever you are in a friendly atmosphere with a small-town vibe that’s just a short drive away from the big city. And we invite your friends to discover Denton, too!
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Visit www.cityofdenton.com for more news and to stay updated.