Mosquito sample tests positive for West Nile

LEANDER, Texas — A mosquito sample collected near Lakewood Park has tested positive for West Nile virus, according to the City of Leander.

The positive sample was reported Sept. 4 through mosquito surveillance conducted by the Williamson County and Cities Health District.

The finding follows two earlier positive mosquito samples reported near Devine Lake Park this summer. The first was reported July 30, followed by another Aug. 7.

A positive mosquito sample confirms the virus is circulating among mosquitoes in the area. It does not by itself indicate a human case.

West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the contiguous United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The virus primarily cycles between birds and mosquitoes. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds and can then transmit the virus to people and other mammals.

West Nile does not normally spread from person to person. Rare transmission has occurred through blood transfusions, organ transplants and from mother to baby, according to the CDC.

About 80% of infected people develop no symptoms, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.

About 20% develop West Nile fever, which can cause fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.

Less than 1% of infected people develop severe neurological illness involving the brain or nervous system.

Symptoms of severe disease can include high fever, neck stiffness, confusion, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness or paralysis.

People experiencing serious neurological symptoms should seek immediate medical care.

Older adults, people with weakened immune systems and those with certain chronic health conditions face a greater risk of severe illness.

There is no licensed human vaccine for West Nile virus and no specific antiviral treatment. Severe cases may require hospitalization and supportive care.

Health officials say preventing mosquito bites remains the primary defense.

The health district recommends its “3-Ds” approach: drain standing water, defend with an EPA-registered insect repellent and dress in long sleeves and pants.

Residents should empty water from flowerpots, pet dishes, buckets, clogged gutters and other containers where mosquitoes can breed.

The CDC also recommends using window and door screens and limiting outdoor exposure between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes that spread West Nile are most active.

City information posted Sept. 4 said a Williamson County contractor planned mosquito treatment near Lakewood Park that night and again Sept. 5.

Mosquito surveillance and control information is available through the Williamson County and Cities Health District’s Fight the Bite program.