First West Nile Virus Death In Texas Reported In Houston

HOUSTON, TX —Harris County County Public health officials confirmed that a man in Harris County has died as a result of contracting West Nile Virus. Officials said the man, who was between 45- and 54-years-old also suffered from other chronic health issues that may have contributed to his death.

There have been six human cases of West Nile reported in the Houston area this year, but this is the first reported West Nile-related death in Houston and in the state of Texas this year, officials said.

“We are devastated to report the first West Nile virus-associated death, and our hearts go out to the family,” said Dr. Umair Shah, executive director of Harris County Public Health.

Officials warn that young children, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems are are at a higher risk of dying from mosquito-borne illnesses.

It’s been a particularly active mosquito season with more than 300 mosquito samples testing positive for the virus. Officials stepped up mosquito abatement efforts this year, and spray most areas several times per month.

Fortunately, the West Nile season, which begins in June, will begin to wane at the start of October.

Officials said about one in five people who are infected with the illness will develop symptoms that include:

• Headache
• body aches
• joint pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash

Other more severe symptoms can include:high fever, stiff neck, stupor, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, encephalitis or meningitis.

Anyone who experiences symptoms of West Nile virus should contact their healthcare provider.

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