DENTON, Texas — For the first time this summer, a person has tested positive for West Nile Virus in Denton County, public health officials said Tuesday.
The Denton County Public Health (DCPH) said the patient lives in Sanger and was diagnosed with West Nile Virus Neuroinvasive Disease.
DCPH said it would not release any more information about the patient citing confidentiality protection.
Symptoms of infection include fever, headache, body aches, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes. Those 50 or older, and people with compromised immune systems, are at higher risk for more severe symptoms.
“We ask community members to take preventive actions to lower their risk of contracting a mosquito-borne illness," said Juan Rodriguez, DCPH Assistant Director and Chief Epidemiologist.
West Nile virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. DCPH said there are simple, effective things you can do to lower your risk for mosquito bites:
- Drain standing water in your yard and neighborhood
- Use an EPA-approved insect repellent effective against mosquitoes. Look for ingredients like DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
- Avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn
- Dress in long sleeves and pants when you are outside and spray thin clothing with repellent.
Residents looking for more information including mosquito maps, the latest news, and facts about West Nile Virus can find resources online here.