A mosquito sample collected in Western Williamson County has tested positive for the West Nile Virus. Lab results from the Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed the sample on Wednesday, October 29th. The sample was collected by the Williamson County and Cities Health District in the 78641 zip code, which includes the City of Leander. The species of mosquito that tested positive was a Culex quinquefasciatus, which carries the West Nile Virus. There are no reported human West Nile virus cases in Williamson County this year but residents within the 78641 zip code should take precautions to protect themselves from mosquitos in their neighborhood. More mosquito samples have been tested this year as a result of the expansion of our Task Force’s Integrated Mosquito Management Program which utilizes a comprehensive management strategy to identify and monitor mosquitoes that carry arboviruses, alert and educate citizens about personal protection, and test mosquitoes throughout the county for the presence of West Nile virus. The latest trap results come from the eastern portion of the 78641 zip code. Parents and children celebrating Halloween in that area should use extra precaution and follow the Four D’s: • Dawn and Dusk are the times to take precautions since mosquitoes are most active at those times • Dress in long sleeves and pants when outdoors • Drain standing water in flower pots, pet dishes, or clogged gutters so mosquitoes cannot lay eggs • Defend using an EPA-approved insect repellant For more information on the mosquito monitoring and control program, visit the Williamson County and Cities Health District website at wcchd.org. For more information on West Nile Virus and the response in Texas, go to the Texas Department of State Health Services West Nile website at txwestnile.org.
Posted on: Fri, 31 Oct 2014 19:13:02 +0000
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