As school resumes and numerous sporting events take place, it is likely people are spending more time outdoors. It’s essential to stay informed about mosquito-borne diseases and take proactive steps to protect yourself, your families, and our community.
Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya viruses: There are no reported cases in our area. However, remaining informed and prepared is crucial to prevent any potential spread of these diseases.
Malaria: While there is a single reported case of malaria in Texas, it’s a reminder that we must remain vigilant and follow preventive measures to reduce the risk of transmission.
West Nile Virus (WNV): Unfortunately, there has been an increase in WNV cases in Texas this summer, totaling 14 cases. WNV has been detected in more mosquito pools this year than in all of 2022. It’s important to note that 70-80% of individuals who contract WNV exhibit little to no symptoms. However, for those who do experience symptoms, they may include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash on the trunk, and swollen glands. The incubation period is typically 2-6 days, extending to 14 days or more for those who are immunocompromised. It’s also crucial to remember that WNV is not spread from person to person; it’s contracted when a person is bitten by an infected mosquito.
Considering Texas typically stays warm into the fall, it’s essential that we monitor for mosquito-borne illnesses into November and December. Each of the mentioned mosquito-borne illnesses is reportable to Tarrant County or your local health department within a week of suspected cases.
Taking precautions is a collective responsibility. To protect yourself and others:
-Regularly apply EPA-registered insect repellent while outdoors
-Eliminate all standing water indoors and outdoors to prevent mosquito breeding
-Ensure screens on windows and doors are in good repair, and use air-conditioning to keep mosquitoes out
-Cover up with long sleeves and pants when outside to minimize exposure
Stay vigilant and take care!
References:
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/mosquito-borne-diseases
https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/new_info/2023/malaria_florida.html
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/notifiable-conditions/reporting-forms
https://www.texmed.org
https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/healthcareproviders/healthCareProviders-ClinLabEval.html