DENTON, TX, Nov. 6, 2025 – The City of Denton has announced its second human case of West Nile Virus, prompting officials to raise the community to Risk Level 5 under the Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan. This escalation occurs when multiple human cases of the virus are reported within the same year.
City staff are exploring all response actions associated with Risk Level 5, while continuing efforts to monitor virus detection sites, treat mosquito breeding grounds, and collect and test adult mosquitoes for the virus.
West Nile Virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, which themselves acquire the virus from feeding on infected birds. Serious illness or even death can result in some cases.
Residents are urged to take several preventive measures, especially as temperatures drop:
- Eliminate standing water: Remove breeding grounds for mosquitoes, such as water in old tires, flowerpots, and clogged rain gutters.
- Avoid outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours: Stay indoors during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Dress appropriately: Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
- Use insect repellent: Apply repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus when outside.
The City provides a limited supply of Bti briquettes to kill mosquito larvae. Proof of residency is required, with a limit of two briquettes per resident. They are available at the following locations:
- Customer Service, 601 E. Hickory St., Ste F, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- City of Denton Composting, 1100 S. Mayhill Rd., Tuesday-Saturday, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The risk of a human outbreak is moderate to high, particularly affecting individuals over 50 or those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of infection may include fever, headache, joint pain, and more severe issues such as mental confusion or seizures. Most people who contract the virus will show no symptoms and will recover independently, but those with concerning symptoms should seek medical advice promptly.
For further details on protection and safety, visit Mosquito Safety | Denton, TX.