The City of Denton has confirmed that a mosquito trapped at Roselawn Drive and Bernard Street in Denia Park has tested positive for West Nile Virus. This discovery was made from samples collected last week.
As a result of the positive test, Denton’s risk level is increased from 2 to 3, indicating a public health concern. At this level, the City will continue to conduct routine surveys of adult mosquitoes, which will be identified at the species level and screened for the virus.
West Nile Virus transmission occurs through the bite of an infected mosquito, which contracts the virus from feeding on infected birds. The virus can result in serious illness or even death.
Residents are urged to take the following precautions:
- Eliminate standing 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.
While the probability of a human outbreak is low to moderate, individuals over 50 years old and those with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of severe illness if infected. Symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, drowsiness, stiff neck, vision problems, body tremors, mental confusion, memory loss, and seizures. Most people infected with the virus will show no symptoms and recover on their own, but those who experience concerning symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
For more information on prevention and safety tips, visit www.cityofdenton.com/westnile.