The first West Nile death of 2024 was reported in Dallas County. Here’s what to know

Dallas County Health and Human Services announced Tuesday the first West Nile virus death of 2024.

The virus first arrived in North Texas in summer 2002, and its presence in the area has continued into the 2024 season.

Here’s what to know about the virus, what cases have been found this year and how to protect yourself.

What is West Nile virus?

West Nile virus is most commonly spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Only about 20% of people who are infected experience symptoms, such as fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says less than 1% of people who contract the virus will develop severe West Nile neuroinvasive disease, a condition that can lead to death or long-term disability. There is no vaccine or medicine available to battle West Nile, and some severely ill patients may need to be hospitalized.

“It can be very serious. It can lead to very serious infection and even death,” Philip Huang, director of the Dallas County Department of Health and Human Services, said. “It’s from something as seemingly innocuous as a mosquito bite. So it’s certainly, you know, a reason to avoid mosquito bites.”

What other cases have been found this year?

Tarrant County health officials announced in mid-May that they collected their first positive sample of West Nile virus in Arlington. Dallas County reported in May the first mosquito sample to test positive. Since then, 372 mosquito traps and 369 mosquito pools have tested positive for the disease.

An online, interactive map from the DCHHS Mosquito Control shows these two areas have already been treated.

As of Aug. 7, Dallas County has reported three cases of West Nile non-neuroinvasive disease and one case of West Nile neuroinvasive disease. One death has been reported.

In 2023, 18 Dallas residents were infected, three Irving residents were infected and one Grand Prairie resident was infected. There were also two deaths associated with West Nile in Dallas County in the 2023 season.

How do I avoid contracting West Nile virus?

West Nile virus season typically runs from April through mid-November, according to Tarrant County health officials. To prevent contracting West Nile virus, Huang recommends following the four D’s:

• DEET: Whenever outside, use insect repellents that have the active ingredient DEET or other EPA-registered repellents, and always follow label instructions.
• DRESS: Wear long, loose, and light-colored clothing outside.
• DRAIN: Drain or treat all standing water in and around your home or workplace where mosquitoes could lay eggs.
• DUSK to DAWN: Limit your time outdoors from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active.