A North Dallas woman is the first person to die this year from the West Nile virus, the Dallas County Health and Human Services reported.
The unknown woman, from the 75230 ZIP code, was reported to have “underlying health conditions.” She was the sixth reported case of the virus in the area.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss. This heartbreaking tragedy underscores the critical importance of safeguarding against mosquito bites, which can transmit several diseases including WNV,” said Dr. Phillip Huang, the Director of Dallas County Health and Human Services, KERANews reported.
The spread of the virus is moving fast as Denton County reported its first human case at the end of July, per The Dallas Express.
The West Nile virus is most commonly spread through mosquitoes in the continental United States. There is no cure or vaccine to prevent or treat the virus. Symptoms can include fever, headache, rash, swollen lymph nodes and diarrhea, according to the CDC.
The CDC says that it can take several weeks or months to recover from the virus, and in some cases may be permanent. And 1 in 10 people die from the virus as it affects the central nervous system.
Officials encourage Dallas County residents to take precautions, and follow the Four Ds to protect against contracting the virus.
Per a report by The Dallas Express, The Four Ds include the following:
Drain standing water to minimize mosquito breeding sites such as bird baths, flowerpots, and clogged rain gutters.
Consider the use of B.T.I. briquettes, often called mosquito dunks, in standing water that cannot be eliminated.
Dress in long sleeves and pants when outside and spray thin clothing with repellent.
Use EPA-registered mosquito repellent. Check for ingredients like DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.