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2nd West Nile Virus Death Confirmed In Dallas County

DALLAS COUNTY (CBSDFW.COM) - Just one day after reporting that a 12th person in Dallas County had been diagnosed with West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease, Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) today confirmed the county's second West Nile Virus death.

The patient who died was also diagnosed with West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease. The individual lived in the 75019 zip code, in Coppell.

The twelfth individual infected with the virus lives in the 75052 zip code, in Grand Prairie.

People are infected with West Nile virus through the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no specific treatment for the virus. Health workers encorage all residents to take preventive measures. Dr. Christopher Perkins, DCHHS medical director and health authority, said "the first line of defense to prevent West Nile virus infection is to avoid getting bitten in the first place."

To find out more about or to report mosquito activity in Dallas County, call (214) 819-2115 or visit Dallas County Health and Human Services online, or DCHHS on Facebook for more information.

North Texas health officials are still urging residents to adhere to the five D's when it comes to controlling the presence of mosquitoes.

  • DRAIN—all areas of standing water including changing water in wading pools, birdbaths, and cleaning out gutters;
  • DEET—Use bug spray and protect clothing with repellents containing permethrin or DEET;
  • DRESS—Dress in light- colored clothing with long sleeves and wear long pants;
  • DUSK/DAWN—Limit outdoor exposure at dusk and dawn;
  • DOORS—Keep door and window screens in good repair

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