Denton County has seen a rise in West Nile Virus (WNV) infections this year, with public health officials confirming four new human cases. According to Denton County Public Health (DCPH), this latest update means the county now has a total of eighteen registered WNV cases in the 2024 season.
The newly reported infections include one person diagnosed with the more severe form of the virus, West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease, living in The Colony. The other three individuals, affected by the less severe non-neuroinvasive strain, reside across The Colony, Carrollton, Trophy Club, and Flower Mound. In their announcement, DCPH refrained from disclosing any personal details about the patients, focusing instead on urging residents to take preventive measures against mosquito bites and reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
"With the continued activity of West Nile Virus mosquitoes and additional human cases in Denton County," Juan Rodriguez, DCPH Assistant Director, and Chief Epidemiologist, was quoted as saying, as per the Denton County website, "we encourage community members to take proactive measures to minimize mosquito breeding areas and continue to use repellents. These simple actions can help protect yourself and your community from mosquito-borne illnesses."
DCPH's preventive strategy includes draining all sources of standing water, such as bird baths and clogged rain gutters, where mosquitoes are known to breed. They also recommend wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants when outdoors, and applying Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. For those curious about the status of WNV in the county, DCPH directs residents to its dedicated West Nile Virus website for more detailed information including mosquito maps, latest news, and insights into the virus.
