Dallas County Officials Report First 2015 Case Of Human West Nile
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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - Officials with Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) has confirmed that someone has contracted the West Nile Virus.
The human West Nile infection is the first in Dallas County for the 2015 season. The unidentified patient lives in the 75217 zip code and was diagnosed with West Nile Fever.
DCHHS Director Zachary Thompson says officials are doing what they should to prevent West Nile and residents should do the same. "Our mosquito surveillance program and the county and municipal abatement teams are taking appropriate actions to ensure the safety of our residents. However, it is important for residents to take the necessary precautions."
West Nile is a mosquito-borne illness that has a greater danger of negatively affecting people over 50 years of age and those with weakened immune systems.
All North Texans are being asked to adhere to the Five D's when it comes to controlling the presence of mosquitoes that transmit West Nile.
- 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
The worst year nationally for West Nile deaths was in 2012, when 286 deaths were recorded. That year Texas had about one-third of the deaths and nearly one-third of the most serious cases.
Click here for more mosquito prevention information from DCHHS.
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