Bryan, Texas Faces Second Confirmed Case of West Nile Virus
Residents of Bryan, Texas, are encouraged to stay vigilant as the Brazos County Health District has confirmed a second case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in the area this month. The most recent patient is a 78-year-old man living in south College Station, who began displaying symptoms that led to his hospitalization. Family members shared that he received his diagnosis last Friday.
Understanding the Situation
The first confirmed case of WNV was also reported in the same region, specifically within the 77845 zip code of south College Station. Felicia Benford from the Brazos County Health District emphasized the importance of community action, stating, “Please keep in mind that all of Brazos County should be considered positive for WNV, and residents should take the necessary steps to reduce exposure to mosquitoes.” This statement underscores that even as cases emerge, prevention remains everyone’s responsibility.
What’s Happening in the Neighborhood
Adding to the concern, mosquito traps set in the neighboring Grimes County zip code 77868 have yielded positive results for the virus as well. The Brazos County Health District actively monitors mosquito populations in both Bryan and College Station through their Mosquito Surveillance program, which runs weekly from May until October. This proactive measure helps track the presence of various viruses, including WNV, St Louis Encephalitis Virus, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus.
The health district also collaborates with the Brazos Valley Vector Collaborative (BVVC), collecting samples from six adjacent counties to further understand the scope of mosquito-borne illnesses in the area. These samples are meticulously prepared and sent to the Texas DSHS Arbovirus Laboratory in Austin for testing.
Residents Warned About Mosquito Activity
With the rise of confirmed cases, health district officials have informed local partners, including the City of Bryan, City of College Station, and Texas A&M University, about the situation. In line with the Brazos County Health District Phased Response Guidelines, plans for enhanced surveillance will commence. This includes deploying additional traps as well as treating confirmed breeding areas with larvicide.
If you’re a resident of Bryan or College Station, it’s crucial to take action now. Health officials strongly recommend eliminating any standing water around your home, ensuring that containers do not collect rainwater, and monitoring your lawn’s irrigation and sewage systems. Standing water serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes, and eliminating it can significantly reduce their numbers in your area.
Preventative Measures: The 4 D’s
Since there are currently no specific medications or vaccines available for West Nile Virus, health authorities urge residents to adopt the 4 D’s strategy to minimize the risk of mosquito bites:
- DEET: Always use an insect repellent containing DEET whenever you step outside and remember to reapply it as needed.
- Dress: Opt for long, loose, light-colored clothing to cover bare skin, making it harder for mosquitoes to bite.
- Dusk and Dawn: Try to limit outdoor activities during these peak mosquito hours.
- Drain: Take the time to drain or treat standing water in and around your property.
What You Need to Know About WNV
West Nile Virus spreads through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Interestingly, most people who come into contact with the virus won’t even realize it—they tend to remain asymptomatic. However, about 20% of affected individuals may experience symptoms, such as headaches, fever, and fatigue. In rare cases, less than 1% of those infected may develop serious neurological issues.
As we navigate this situation, it’s vital for the community to prioritize safety and awareness. With a little diligence, we can all do our part to combat the spread of West Nile Virus. Stay safe out there!
For more detailed information, residents can visit the Brazos County Health District’s website.
