WACO, Texas (KWTX) – Waco McLennan Public Health confirmed McLennan County’s first case of West Nile Virus infection since 2020 on Aug. 29.
Public health officials said the local resident with the virus is an adult male with no travel history.
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito.
“Most people infected with the virus will not experience any symptoms, but some may experience mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and rash,” the health department said.
“In rare cases, especially in older people or those with weakened immune systems, the virus can cause more severe neurological illness, including encephalitis and meningitis.”
The health department also recommends the following precautions:
Use an EPA-registered insect repellent. Wear long sleeves and long pants, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out. Eliminate standing water in gutters, flower pots, birdbaths, and other places where mosquitoes may breed.
Residents are encouraged to call the health department at (254) 750-5464 for assistance if they find any areas with stagnant water for more than a week, as this could be a sign of increased mosquito activity.
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