Mosquito Control Division has confirmed that two (2) mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNv). The samples were collected from mosquito trapping sites located at:
Farley Drive @ Picton Drive 77032 KM 374V
Ladbroke Lane @ Charriton Drive 77039 KM 414E
These are the first locations this season that have tested positive for West Nile virus. Last year, the virus made its first appearance in mosquitoes in late May.
In response to WNv being confirmed in mosquitoes, the evening spray operation has been activated in the affected and surrounding areas. Evening spraying occurs Sunday Thursday beginning at dusk.
Because West Nile virus is now part of our environment, residents are strongly encouraged to help control mosquitoes and prevent disease by routinely following preventive measures to help reduce the likelihood of exposure to mosquitoes. The best defense against being bitten is not giving mosquitoes a place to breed.
1. Dont feed the storm drains. Sweep up lawn clippings, leaves and tree limbs from sidewalks and driveways.
2. Remove/empty any containers which may hold water. Flowerpots, tires, childrens toys, etc. should be drained, inverted, covered or removed. Change water in birdbaths at least once a week.
3. Keep rain gutters properly clean and draining and repair household leaks.
4. Make sure screens on windows and doors are in good condition.
5. Wear long pants and long sleeved shirts when outdoors particularly at dawn and dusk.
6. When outdoors, use an insect repellent containing the chemical compound DEET and apply as directed on the label. The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using a repellent with a lower concentration of DEET, 10% or less, on children aged 2-12. Do not allow young children to apply repellent to themselves; have an adult do it for them.
7. When mosquitoes are noticed in your yard, spray with an outdoor mosquito spray. Be sure to use according to directions on the label. To control mosquitoes in your house, use a flying insect spray. Be sure to use according to directions on the label.
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease that can cause encephalitis, a brain infection. Mosquitoes acquire West Nile virus from birds and pass it on to other birds, animals and people.
Most people who are infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms or only mild symptoms such as low-grade fever and headache. More severe signs and symptoms can include: high fever, stiff neck, muscle weakness, disorientation, brain inflammation (encephalitis), coma and rarely, death. When symptoms of infection do occur, they usually appear 5-15 days from the time you were bitten. If you think you have been infected with the West Nile virus, contact your family physician.
Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services Mosquito Control Division has and will continue to protect the health and well-being of the citizens of Harris County through the prevention and control of mosquitoes and mosquito-borne diseases.