Denton County Public Health reported Tuesday night its eighth human case of West Nile Virus for 2017 in Denton County.
The resident lives in Little Elm and was diagnosed with West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease, according to a DCPH news release.
Juan Rodriguez, assistant director and chief epidemiologist with DCPH, recommended that residents take an active role in protecting themselves against mosquitoes.
“While not every mosquito carries the virus, West Nile illness is present in Denton County,” Rodriguez said in a prepared statement. “We encourage residents to adhere to the recommended precautions to minimize risk, including utilizing EPA-approved repellant and dressing in clothing that limits skin exposure when outdoors.”
According to DCPH, residents should take the following steps to minimize risk of contracting WNV:
- Drain standing water around your home, such as bird baths or pet dishes. Consider the use of BTI briquettes (or mosquito dunks) in standing water that cannot be eliminated.
- Be aware of mosquitoes during active times between dusk and dawn.
- Defend yourself by using insect repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus when outdoors. Use repellant as directed on label instructions.
- Dress in long-sleeves, pants, and socks when outside to reduce skin exposure.
For more information from DCPH, click here.
