West Nile case reported in Sugar Land

The Fort Bend County Health and Social Services Department informed Dr. Joe Anzaldua, medical director and health authority of the city, that a person living in Sugar Land had recently been tested positive for West Nile virus. in a local hospital.

Due to HIPAA considerations, additional details are not available, including where the adult has been exposed to West Nile.

As a precautionary measure, the city will increase mosquito spraying twice a week throughout the city and will continue to work closely with the Texas Department of Health to trap and test mosquitoes for the presence of the virus. West Nile. The traps complement the operations of larvicides and mosquitoes in the city.

No mosquitoes have been tested positive for West Nile virus since the week of August 10th.

Humans can contract West Nile virus as a result of a mosquito bite. Infected mosquitoes feed on the virus of infected birds. The virus can cause serious illness or death.

Anzaldua urges residents to take precautions to reduce exposure to West Nile.

"Residents must use an insect repellent every time they are outdoors and avoid going out at dusk and dawn," said Anzaldua. "People over 50 and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to become seriously ill if infected with the virus, and if people have symptoms that are of concern to them, they should contact their health care provider immediately. health."

There are no drugs to treat or vaccines to prevent infection with West Nile virus. Symptoms may include stiff neck, vision problems, body tremors, mental confusion, memory loss and convulsions. The mildest form of the disease is West Nile fever. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle and bone pain, nausea, and drowsiness. People with the benign form of the disease usually recover on their own, although the symptoms may last for several weeks. Up to 80% of people infected with West Nile virus will have no symptoms and will recover on their own. Anyone with questions or concerns should contact their doctor.

The Texas Ministry of Health recommends using the "four Ds" as a precautionary measure:

Use an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil.

Dress in long sleeves and long pants when you are outside.

Stay indoors at dusk and at dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

Drain stagnant water where mosquitoes breed. Common breeding sites include old tires, flowerpots and clogged gutters.

It is also important for residents to eliminate stagnant water around their homes, an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. Learn more by using the city's interactive tool at http://webtools.sugarlandtx.gov/sl/epub/fightthebite/index.html.

For more information, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/fightthebite.