Denton County Public Health is reporting its third human case of West Nile virus this year.
The person lives in the northwest quadrant of unincorporated Denton County and was diagnosed with West Nile neuroinvasive disease, the more serious form of the illness.
“We continue to see mosquito activity and identify traps with mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile Virus in Denton County,” stated Juan Rodriguez, Assistant Director and Chief Epidemiologist. “As kids return to sports activities and community members spend time outdoors, it is important to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites.”
Neuroinvasive disease occurs when the virus affects the nervous system and can cause inflammation of the brain or spinal cord. Symptoms may include severe headache, fever, confusion, muscle weakness and, in serious cases, paralysis or death.
Health officials remind residents that mosquitoes remain active despite hot, dry conditions and urge people to take steps to avoid bites.
