Health Services Reports First West Nile Virus Case in Midland County Resident This Year

By Josiah Carrasco

MIDLAND COUNTY — Midland Health Services has confirmed the first case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in a Midland County resident this year. The confirmation came from the State of Texas earlier this week, marking the initial report of the virus in the region for 2024.

West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. Mosquitoes become infected with the virus by feeding on birds carrying WNV. Once these mosquitoes are infected, they can spread the virus to humans. It is important to note that WNV is not spread from person to person.

Symptoms and Risks

While approximately 80% of people infected with West Nile Virus will not show symptoms, those who do may experience:

• Headache

• Fever

• Muscle and joint aches

• Nausea

• Fatigue

  
  

A rarer but more severe form of the disease can affect the central nervous system, with symptoms including:

• Neck stiffness

• Stupor

• Disorientation

• Coma

• Tremors

• Convulsions

• Muscle weakness

• Paralysis

  
  

There are no specific treatments or vaccines available for West Nile Virus. Most symptomatic individuals find relief through rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain medications. However, older adults and those with existing health issues are at a higher risk for more severe illness.

Prevention Measures

To protect yourself from West Nile Virus, Midland Health Services recommends:

• Using EPA-registered insect repellents: Apply repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin.

• Wearing protective clothing: Opt for long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors, particularly during peak mosquito activity times.

• Protecting living areas: Ensure windows are equipped with intact screens and use air conditioning to keep mosquitoes outside.

• Limiting outdoor activities: Avoid being outdoors during peak mosquito hours, typically at sunrise and sunset.

• Eliminating standing water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Regularly empty containers such as bird baths, buckets, and old tires to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

  
  

For more information on West Nile Virus, including symptoms, prevention, and treatment, visit the Texas Department of State Health Services website at DSHS West Nile Virus Information.

This case highlights the importance of remaining vigilant and taking proactive measures to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.