Tarrant County Public Health issues West Nile Virus Warning

July 30, 2020 (Tarrant County, TX) – Positive West Nile Virus mosquito activity is now at record high levels, prompting Tarrant County Public Health to issue a public health warning to the general public. In light of the elevated risk, Tarrant County Public Health is reminding residents to take the proper protective measures to protect themselves against the West Nile Virus.

“We are continuing to see rapid increases in mosquito infection rates in Tarrant County, which means we have more human risk for West Nile Virus,” said Tarrant County Public Health Director Vinny Taneja. “To prevent outbreaks of West Nile, it’s very important that people remember to always use an EPA-approved repellent and wear long sleeves and pants when they go outside,” he said.

Tarrant County Public Health will also implement control measures to reduce the mosquito population, including increased mosquito surveillance in areas of positive traps and increased ground spraying in areas where spread of West Nile Virus is likely.

The first West Nile Virus human case and death of the 2020 season was reported on July 21. Symptoms of West Nile Virus include headache, fever, muscle and joint aches, nausea and fatigue.  People typically recover on their own, although symptoms may last for several weeks.

Here is a list of mosquito repellents endorsed by the FDA and CDC. Tarrant County Public Health also has more information about West Nile Virus and other preventive measures residents can take at Be Mosquito Free.

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