First Detection of West Nile Virus in Brazos County Confirmed
The Brazos County health district recently reported the first detection of mosquitoes infected with West Nile Virus (WNV) this summer. Discovered in College Station’s 77845 zip code area, residents are encouraged to follow mosquito-exposure-reducing measures for their protection.
About the Confirmed Case
The positive testing of the mosquito samples was conducted by the Brazos County Health District Vector Surveillance Program, in conjunction with the Texas Department of State Health Services Arbovirus Laboratory. The surveillance program conducts weekly trapping in Bryan and College Station from May through October to monitor the prevalence of West Nile Virus, St. Louis Encephalitis Virus, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus.
The confirmed outbreak has led to enhanced surveillance, including additional traps and larvicide treatments in the affected area, in accordance with the Brazos County Health District’s phased response guidelines.
Protective Measures
Residents in all regions of Bryan, College Station, and Brazos Valley are urged to eliminate standing water in containers on their properties, as it serves as potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Additionally, they are encouraged to regularly check the functioning of their lawn irrigation and onsite sewage systems.
Since there are no specific medications or vaccines to treat or prevent WNV infection, it is imperative that residents follow the 4D’s strategy to reduce exposure to the mosquito virus. The strategy involves using and reapplying insect repellents containing DEET, wearing long, loose, light-colored clothing, limiting time outdoors during dusk and dawn, and draining standing water in and around residential or workplace areas.
Implications of the Virus
West Nile Virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Though most people exposed to the virus do not develop sickness, about 20% exhibit symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, nausea, and fatigue. For less than one percent of these individuals, the virus can affect the nervous system, resulting in severe symptoms including neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, and in the most extreme cases, death.
General Public Awareness and Response
The detection of the West Nile Virus has seen a community-wide increase in preventative measures and awareness campaigns. Health officials are working to promote improved sanitation, reduction of possible breeding grounds, and spreading awareness of personal protection strategies against mosquitoes.