Thursday, December 5, 2024
Texas is on high alert as public health officials confirm the first case of West Nile virus for 2024 and report multiple instances of travel-associated dengue. With mosquito-borne diseases on the rise, the Texas Department of State Health Services is urging residents to take precautions to protect themselves.
According to dshs.texas.gov, the first reported case of West Nile virus in Texas this year was in Montgomery County, where a resident was diagnosed with West Nile fever. As of September, nearly 800 mosquito samples have tested positive for the virus in 24 counties across the state, underscoring the ongoing threat.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 880 West Nile virus disease cases nationally in 2024. All dengue cases in U.S. states and territories in 2024 equal 5,608. The CDC also states the total number of human Eastern Equine Encephalitis disease cases, including neuroinvasive and nonneuroinvasive, is 13.
“Unfortunately, many mosquitoes in Texas are capable of spreading diseases, such as West Nile and dengue,” said DSHS Commissioner Dr. Jennifer Shuford. “These diseases are often mild, but some people will develop severe illness. So, Texans must know how to protect themselves against mosquito bites.”
West Nile virus, spread through mosquito bites, remains a primary concern for public health. While most infected individuals remain asymptomatic, about 20% develop mild symptoms, including fever, headache and muscle aches. In rare cases, the virus can cause neuroinvasive disease, leading to complications such as encephalitis, meningitis and even death.
Samantha Anne, a Texas resident, shared a personal account of her mother’s battle with the virus after she was diagnosed in August. Her mother, who was hospitalized for two weeks with severe complications, is now recovering but faces ongoing physical therapy. Anne expressed frustration with the delayed reporting of the virus, which kept the public unaware of the rising cases for over a month.
“I want people to take mosquito protection seriously. This virus can quickly escalate into a life-threatening condition,” Anne said. “It’s critical to seek medical help quickly when symptoms arise, especially if you live alone.”
Dengue fever continues to appear, with 10 confirmed travel-associated cases in Texas this year. These cases were contracted in countries where dengue is endemic, primarily in tropical regions of South America, Asia and the Caribbean. While local transmission of dengue has been rare, the CDC has raised concerns about an increased disease risk due to rising global case numbers.
Like West Nile, dengue is spread through mosquito bites. Symptoms, which can include high fever, severe pain behind the eyes, rash and muscle aches, typically appear between three and 14 days after exposure. While most people recover within two weeks, a small portion may develop severe dengue, which can be fatal if untreated.
“With the increase in travel and mosquito migration patterns, we must remain vigilant,” said Shuford. “Dengue is not just a risk abroad, but it could spread more widely if we aren’t careful.”
Meanwhile, the EEE virus, though less common, continues to pose a threat to residents in some regions of Texas, particularly along the Gulf Coast, as well as along the Atlantic coastline. EEE is a rare but severe viral disease also transmitted by mosquitoes, and the CDC warns that cases of the virus are still being reported in multiple states.
To combat these threats, experts recommend a range of protective measures, including using mosquito repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed. Products like Thermacell mosquito repellent, which provide a 15-foot zone of protection, and plant-based repellents, such as Murphy’s Naturals candles, are gaining popularity for outdoor use.
“Repellents are an essential tool in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases,” said Shuford. “Whether at home or traveling, it’s crucial to use them consistently.”
As mosquito activity remains high through late fall, officials urge Texans to take every precautions to minimize the risks of contracting these potentially dangerous diseases.
“Take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones,” Anne advised. “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”
The state will continue to monitor mosquito populations and encourage residents to stay informed through local health channels as the situation evolves.
For more information on how to protect yourself, visit the Texas Department of State Health Services website at dshs.texas.gov.
