West Nile Virus Suspected in Austin Resident, Warning Issued

Strategic Insights -

As the summer season continues in Austin, Texas, the City of Austin is issuing a warning about the West Nile virus after a resident was suspected of contracting the disease. According to the City of Austin, the patient displayed symptoms, and the Texas Department of State Health Services is pending confirmation. As of August 4th, nine mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile virus in Travis County this season.

Key Takeaways:

  • The City of Austin suspects West Nile virus in a resident pending confirmation from the Texas Department of State Health Services.
  • Nine mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile virus in Travis County as of August 4th.
  • The patient displayed symptoms of the virus, which include headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.
  • Approximately 20 percent of people infected with West Nile virus develop symptoms, and some develop serious symptoms such as seizures or coma.
  • People over 60 years of age and those with medical conditions like cancer, diabetes, hypertension, or kidney disease are at greater risk of developing serious disease.
  • In 2024, 101 local mosquito pools tested positive for the virus, with 33 cases reported in Austin-Travis County, including two deaths.
  • Environmental Health Services Division Chief Marcel Elizondo emphasizes the importance of checking properties for standing water, which can breed mosquitoes.
  • Fight the Bite Day and Night with the Four Ds: Dusk and dawn, Dress, DEET, and Drain to prevent mosquito bites.

Statistics:

  • 9 mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile virus in Travis County as of August 4th.
  • 20 percent of people infected with West Nile virus develop symptoms.
  • 101 local mosquito pools tested positive for the virus in 2024.
  • 33 West Nile virus cases, including 2 deaths, were reported in Austin-Travis County in 2024.
  • People over 60 years of age are at greater risk of developing serious disease.

Sources:

  • The City of Austin:

"Austin Public Health (APH) suspects West Nile virus in a resident pending confirmation from the Texas Department of State Health Services."

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

"West Nile virus is not spread through coughing, sneezing or touching other people or live animals."

  • Environmental Health Services Division Chief Marcel Elizondo:

"Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a bottle cap full of water - be sure to check your property and clear out any standing water you see."

  • Travis County mosquito pool data:

"Nine mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile virus in Travis County as of August 4th."