Austin Sees It’s Second Confirmed Case Of West Nile

Austin Public Health has confirmed a second human case of West Nile Virus (WNV)–a more serious form of the illness known as West Nile Neuroinvasive disease.  

Additionally, two mosquito samples (pools) recently submitted to the Department of State Health Services tested positive for West Nile. Both samples came from traps set in the Barton Creek greenbelt area. 

Most people infected with WNV do not have any signs or symptoms, but if symptoms develop, seek medical attention. WNV symptoms begin with fever, headache, tiredness, body aches, an occasional skin rash (on the trunk of the body) and swollen lymph glands.

While the illness can be as short as a few days, even healthy people have reported being sick for several weeks. Advanced age is by far the most significant risk factor for developing severe disease after infection. The risk of severe disease is greatest among people age 50 years and older.

It’s important to remember that West Nile is endemic in our environment; in other words, it’s here to stay. However, everyone can help reduce the mosquito population by preventing them from breeding.

Mosquitoes can lay their larvae in as little as a teaspoon of water, so dump water from any containers outside your home such as flower pots and children’s toys. It’s also important to fix outdoor pipes and leaky faucets and clean roof gutters.

Austin Public Health also offers these tips to prevent mosquito bites.

• The best defense is with an EPA-approved insect repellent. Those with DEET are the most effective and proven to be safe, even for children and pregnant women. Follow directions and reapply as directed.
• Stay inside when mosquitos are active.
• If you have to be outside, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants that are light colored, since mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors.

For more information, visit www.austintexas.gov/zika   or #FighttheBite.