Health authorities have confirmed the first death in Collin County attributed to West Nile virus this year, raising concerns as the total number of fatalities in North Texas reaches four.
Earlier this summer, two West Nile cases were reported in Collin County. Although one case led to a fatal outcome, the exact date of the death remains unclear, according to WFAA News, as the county’s arbovirus activity report provides only limited details.
In addition to Collin County, neighboring Dallas, Denton, and Tarrant counties have each reported a death linked to West Nile virus. The increase in cases has prompted local health officials to reinforce preventative measures and raise public awareness about the virus.
West Nile virus is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, and health experts urge residents to adhere to the “Four Ds” to reduce the risk of infection.
- DEET: Apply insect repellent that contains this chemical to deter bug bites.
- Dress: Wear long, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to reduce exposure to mosquitoes.
- Drain: It’s important to eliminate any standing water around your home and workplace, as these areas can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
- Dusk to Dawn: Minimize outdoor activities from dusk to dawn during the peak mosquito activity period.
The Collin County Health Department, per WFAA News, has reported that 19 mosquito traps tested positive for the West Nile virus.
Denton County Public Health also reported its first human case of West Nile virus for the year in late July.
Earlier in May, Tarrant County Public Health revealed that a mosquito sample from Arlington had also tested positive for the virus, according to The Dallas Express. A 67-year-old man from Parker County passed away from West Nile virus complications at the start of July.
Additionally, Dallas County Health and Human Services confirmed that mosquito samples from the 75115 ZIP code in DeSoto and the 75104 ZIP code in Cedar Hill have tested positive for the West Nile virus.
The CDC reported that 2023 the U.S. had 2,566 West Nile virus cases, including 1,738 “neuroinvasive” cases and 182 deaths. From 1999 to 2023, there were 59,141 cases, with 30,422 labeled as “neuroinvasive.”