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Denton County on High Alert: First West Nile Virus Case of 2025 Confirmed

  • Nishadil
  • September 10, 2025
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  • 2 minutes read
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Denton County on High Alert: First West Nile Virus Case of 2025 Confirmed

Denton County Public Health (DCPH) has issued a critical alert following the confirmation of the first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) within the county for 2025. This significant development underscores the persistent threat of mosquito-borne illnesses and serves as a vital reminder for all residents to heighten their preventive measures.

The confirmed case, details of which remain confidential to protect patient privacy, marks the official start of WNV season's impact on human health in the region.

While the majority of individuals infected with West Nile Virus experience no symptoms or only mild, flu-like symptoms, a small percentage can develop severe neurological illnesses such as encephalitis or meningitis, which can be life-threatening.

In response to this confirmation, DCPH is reinforcing its public health campaigns and enhancing mosquito surveillance efforts across the county.

These efforts include increased trapping and testing of mosquito populations, as well as targeted larvicide and adulticide treatments in areas where mosquito activity is high or where WNV has been detected in mosquito samples. Residents are strongly encouraged to cooperate with local vector control programs.

Protecting yourself and your family from WNV primarily revolves around preventing mosquito bites.

Denton County Public Health strongly advocates for the "Four D's" of West Nile Virus prevention:

  • DEET: Use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), Para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. Always follow product label instructions.
  • DRESS: Wear long sleeves and long pants when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito activity hours, to minimize skin exposure.
  • DUSK/DAWN: Stay indoors during dusk and dawn, as these are the times when Culex mosquitoes, the primary carriers of WNV, are most active.
  • DRAIN: Eliminate standing water around your home.

    Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water, so regularly empty pet bowls, change water in bird baths, clean gutters, and remove items that can collect water, such as old tires and toys. Even small amounts of water can become breeding grounds.

Symptoms of West Nile Virus typically appear 3 to 14 days after a bite from an infected mosquito.

Mild symptoms may include fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. These symptoms often resolve on their own. However, severe cases can lead to high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness, paralysis, and even coma.

Anyone experiencing severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, which acquires the virus from biting infected birds. It is important to note that WNV cannot be spread from person to person through casual contact, or directly from birds to humans.

Denton County Public Health urges residents to remain vigilant throughout the mosquito season.

By taking proactive steps to protect themselves and eliminate mosquito breeding sites, the community can significantly reduce the risk of further WNV transmission. For more information and updates, visit the DCPH website or contact your healthcare provider.

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Disclaimer: This article was generated in part using artificial intelligence and may contain errors or omissions. The content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. We makes no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, completeness, or reliability. Readers are advised to verify the information independently before relying on