Hays County officials say two mosquito traps in San Marcos have tested positive for West Nile virus after samples were collected on July 7 in the 78666 ZIP code. These are the county’s first confirmed West Nile detections of the 2026 season, and no human cases have been reported so far. County staff are keeping a close eye on surveillance and urging residents to cut down on mosquito breeding by clearing out standing water around their homes.
County and public health updates were detailed by FOX 7 Austin, which reported that the samples came from two separate sites in 78666 and confirmed these traps as Hays County’s first positive detections this year. The station noted that officials used the announcement to repeat the usual summer reminders about mosquito safety and to stress that the July 7 collection date helps them track how local activity is trending.
Statewide totals show broad activity
According to the Texas Department of State Health Services' weekly arbovirus report, 462 mosquito pools had tested positive for West Nile statewide for the week ending July 5. The DSHS weekly snapshot provides county-level figures and maps that public health agencies use to prioritize monitoring and control. Those statewide numbers put the San Marcos findings into context and help health departments decide where to increase trapping, spraying, and public outreach.
Central Texas is seeing scattered positives
Neighboring agencies have also reported early season positives. Austin Public Health confirmed a West Nile positive mosquito pool in the 78733 ZIP code on June 30. Local health officials say detections often pop up across adjacent counties as surveillance ramps up during the summer. That regional pattern is a key reason counties from Travis to Hays are nudging residents to get serious about mosquito precautions now rather than waiting for human cases.
Symptoms, risk and prevention
Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms, and about 80% are asymptomatic, with no specific antiviral treatment available, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Health agencies point residents to practical steps that still go a long way: use an EPA-registered repellent, wear long sleeves and pants when outside at dusk and dawn, and empty or treat any standing water around yards. Hays County’s mosquito surveillance program also publishes guidance and contact information for residents who have questions about local traps, problem areas, or potential breeding sites.
Where to watch for updates
For maps and local tracking, Hays County’s mosquito pages list program details, surveillance information, and contacts, while the state maintains West Nile maps and weekly reports online. Residents with concerns about mosquito breeding or who want to report standing water can contact Hays County Development Services through the county website. Officials emphasize that routine vigilance, from draining containers and covering water to using repellents, remains the best defense while mosquitoes are active from May through November.
