West Nile Virus Concerns in Corpus Christi
Nueces County has reported the detection of three mosquito pools infected with the West Nile Virus, including one in Corpus Christi, as announced by County Judge Connie Scott. This news follows a similar report from neighboring San Patricio County, where officials confirmed a positive test in Portland last Monday.
Spreading Through Local Areas
The other two infected samples were collected from Agua Dulce and Bishop, indicating a spread across various parts of the county. As of this past Friday, all confirmed virus cases have been identified in mosquito pools, with no human cases reported thus far. This situation underscores the importance of vigilance and preventative measures against this potentially deadly virus.
Official Advice and Preventative Measures
Dr. Fauzia Khan, Public Health Director of Corpus Christi, emphasized the need for public awareness regarding the symptoms and risks of the West Nile Virus. “Symptoms can range from fever, headache, vomiting, or rash. For some, it might be more serious, while others may not exhibit any symptoms,” Dr. Khan explained. To combat the spread of the virus, she recommends several preventative strategies:
- Use bug spray containing DEET.
- Wear long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk.
- Drain any standing water on your property to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.
Local Efforts to Control Mosquito Population
Efforts to mitigate the mosquito problem are ongoing, with local cities continuing to spray areas where mosquitoes are most populous. Victor Hinojosa of the Nueces County Vector Control shared insights into the county’s strategy. “We have 16 traps set up, and we test these traps weekly,” Hinojosa stated. He further assured that spraying would continue in areas testing positive for the virus until the issue is fully resolved.
Stay Informed and Protected
The recent findings remind the community to stay informed and protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses. Following the guidelines set by health authorities can significantly reduce the risk of infection.