West Nile confirmed in Southeast Austin

A mosquito pool has tested positive for the West Nile virus in the 78744 ZIP code, though no human cases of the virus have been identified. According to Austin Public Health, in 2023 Austin-Travis County saw one death from the virus and three probable cases. Statewide, 913 positive pools and 90 confirmed cases were reported. West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness in the country. According to a press release from APH, “Approximately 20 percent of people infected with West Nile virus develop symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Of those infected, few develop further serious illnesses, usually affecting the central nervous system. People over 60 years of age are at greater risk of developing serious disease, as are those with medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension or kidney disease. Organ transplant recipients are also at risk for more severe forms of disease.” The health authority is encouraging residents to drain standing water to prevent breeding, apply an EPA-registered insect repellent, wear pants and long sleeves when outside and to be aware that mosquitoes (like vampires) are most active from dusk until dawn.