First human West Nile Virus case this season confirmed in Dallas

Dallas - Health officials have announced the emergence of the first West Nile virus case for the year 2023 in the state. Dallas Metro News reported that this confirmation comes from the Dallas County Health and Human Services, who reported the diagnosis of West Nile neuroinvasive disease in a Dallas County resident.

The West Nile virus spreads through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Although a majority of those exposed to the virus don't fall ill, around one in five people may exhibit symptoms such as headache, fever, muscle and joint aches, nausea, and fatigue. In a minute fraction of cases, less than one percent, the virus can escalate to the severe West Nile neuroinvasive disease, manifesting as neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, and even leading to death.

“It’s important for people to be aware that there are many diseases transmitted by mosquitoes found in Texas,” said DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford, MD, MPH.

“Most of these diseases cause mild illness but in rare instances diseases like dengue or Zika can cause severe illness. We’ve even had a locally acquired case of malaria in Texas this year, which underscores the importance of taking precautions to prevent mosquito bites.”

The Texas Department of State Health Services is encouraging people to remain vigilant and protect themselves and their families from West Nile and other mosquito-borne diseases by adopting the following measures:

• WEAR long sleeves and pants. Create a barrier to mosquito bites by covering up.
• APPLY insect repellent. Use EPA-registered repellent such as those containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol or 2-undecanone.
• REMOVE standing water. Emptying out water that accumulates in toys, tires, trash cans, buckets, clogged rain gutters and plant pots will deny mosquitoes a place to lay their eggs and reproduce.

In addition, it's recommended to keep homes mosquito-free by using air conditioning and ensuring that window and door screens are in good condition. If symptoms of West Nile are present, the DSHS advises contacting a healthcare provider and disclosing any mosquito exposure.

Last year, Texas reported 42 cases of West Nile disease, resulting in 7 fatalities. Over the past five years, the state has seen 485 cases and 65 deaths. Mosquito activity persists in a large part of Texas even into November and December.

Credit: Dallas Metro News, Dallas County Health and Human Services, Texas Department of Health and Human Services