Mosquitoes test positive West Nile Virus in Brazos County, BCHD confirms

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX) - The Brazos County Health District Mosquito Surveillance Unit said mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). According to the unit, the mosquito trap was located in the 77845 zip code of College Station.

Although Brazos County has had mosquito samples test positive for WNV, this is the first positive sample in 2021.

All Brazos County residents are urged to use the 4D’s to reduce exposure to mosquitoes:

• DEET All day, Every Day:  Whenever outside, use insect repellents that have the active ingredient DEET or other EPA-registered repellents and always follow label instructions.
• Dress:  Wear long, loose, and light-colored clothing outside.
• Drain:  Drain or treat all standing water in and around your home or workplace where mosquitoes could lay eggs.
• All Day long:  Day, Dusk, and Dawn – Limit your time outdoors, mosquitoes are active any time day or night.

While only 20 percent of people exposed to WNV develop symptoms, it’s important to know what to look for. Symptoms for the virus include headache, fever, body aches, joint pains, nausea, and fatigue and less that one percent, the virus affects the nervous system, leading to a more serious illness that can cause neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, and even death.

In the last 10 years, Texas has reported more than 3,300 cases of West Nile disease, including 172 deaths according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.

For more information, visit the BCHD website at www.brazoshealth.org

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