DENTON, TX – The City of Denton has confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in mosquitoes trapped at North Lakes Park on Bonnie Brae and Westgate at I-35N. Mosquitoes collected this week tested positive for the virus.
Due to this finding, Denton has elevated its risk level from 2 to 3, indicating a public health concern. At this level, the city will continue routine surveys of adult mosquitoes, identifying them by species and screening for the virus.
West Nile virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, which acquires the virus from feeding on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes can then transmit the virus to humans and other animals. While most infected individuals will not show symptoms, about 1 in 5 people infected with the virus will develop a fever and other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Severe cases, which occur in about 1 in 150 infected individuals, can involve neurological illnesses such as encephalitis or meningitis, potentially leading to long-term complications or death (CDC) (CDC) (CDC).
To mitigate the risk, residents are advised to take the following precautions:
- Eliminate Standing Water: Remove any standing water around homes, as it serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. This includes 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 when outdoors (CDC).
While the probability of a widespread human outbreak is low to moderate, individuals over 60 years old and those with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of severe illness if infected with West Nile virus. Symptoms of severe illness include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis. Severe cases may require hospitalization for supportive treatment, such as intravenous fluids and pain management (CDC) (CDC).
For more information on prevention and safety tips, residents can visit Mosquito Safety | Denton, TX.