AUSTIN (KXAN) — On Friday, Austin Public Health (APH) said it suspects one Travis County resident may have West Nile virus. However, confirmation is still pending from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
This comes after a patient displayed symptoms of the virus to their healthcare provider. As of Aug. 4, nine mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile virus in Travis County this season, according to APH.
Those mosquito pools that tested positive for West Nile virus were found in the 78702, 78723, 78741 and 78701 zip codes. To find an updated map on where positive pools have been found in Travis County, visit the city’s website.
“As we’re spending time outside enjoying the water and the weather, we must take precautions for mosquitoes and the diseases they can carry,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, the Austin-Travis County Health Authority. “Diseases like West Nile virus can cause serious health issues – take a few minutes out of your day to protect yourself and others.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, West Nile virus is not spread through coughing, sneezing or touching other people and live animals.
In 2024, APH said a total of 101 mosquito pools tested positive for West Nile virus. Preliminary results, pending finalization by DSHS, showed 33 cases, including two deaths that were reported in Austin-Travis County.
“All the rain we’ve seen so far this year has created plenty of breeding grounds for mosquitoes,” said Environmental Health Services Division Chief Marcel Elizondo. “Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a bottle cap full of water — be sure to check your property and clear out any standing water you see.”
APH provided tips to help prevent contracting West Nile virus, which include the four Ds:
- Dusk and Dawn: The species that spread West Nile virus are most active between dusk and dawn.
- Dress: Wear pants and long sleeves when you are outside. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing; mosquito-repellent clothing is also available.
- DEET: Apply insect repellent that contains DEET. Spray both exposed skin and clothing with repellent.
- Drain: Remove standing water in your yard and neighborhood. Old tires, flowerpots, clogged rain gutters, bird baths, and more can be breeding sites for mosquitoes.
To learn more about how you can keep yourself safe from mosquitoes, visit APH’s website.