Zika and West Nile – What You Should Know

Zika

Texas has had 90 reported cases of Zika virus disease. This count includes three pregnant women, one infant infected before birth, and one person who had sexual contact with a traveler. Of these cases, 40 have occurred in the metro area of Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, and Denton counties. Additionally, for the first time ever, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued a travel warning for a community in America. The community is in northern Miami and highlights the possibility that a Zika outbreak can occur in any community.

West Nile Virus

The number of mosquito traps testing positive for the West Nile Virus remains high throughout Tarrant County. The map to the right shows the high presence of WNV in the various mosquito traps throughout the region with 236 traps testing positive so far this year. Just this week, the third human case of WNV in Denton County was reported in Trophy Club. WNV is part of our environment, but we do not usually see this level of activity this early in the summer. This is the highest amount of WNV in the environment since 2012.

As we move into August, not only will it be extremely hot, this is also the time of year when Southlake will see the highest amounts of mosquitos in the environment. While the City of Southlake is doing everything it can to help control the mosquito population, we must emphasize that our success is dependent upon our partnership with the Southlake community. Please remember to Fight the Bite:

• Apply EPA-approved insect repellent.
• Wear pants and long-sleeve shirts that cover exposed skin.
• In warmer weather, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers exposed skin.
• Use screens or close windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
• Remove standing water in and around your home. This includes water in cans, toys, tires, plant saucers, and any container that can hold water.
• Cover trash cans or containers where water can collect.
• Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.

Remember that these tips not only help control the mosquito that spreads Zika, but these same preparedness measures also affect the mosquito that spreads West Nile Virus. For more information about our mosquito response efforts, please visit CityofSouthlake.com.