West Nile detected in Southeast Austin

Austin Public Health has identified the presence of mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus in the 78744 ZIP code in Southeast Austin. No human infections have been found, but “the positive mosquito pools indicate the virus is in our community,” according to the news release. Marcel Elizondo, the health department’s interim assistant director of environmental vector control, said, “We use routine monitoring to assist us in alerting the public about the potential spread of the virus through mosquito bites. By eliminating breeding opportunities and protecting ourselves from mosquito bites, we keep ourselves, our families, and communities safe.” Find information on how to prevent West Nile and eliminate mosquito breeding sites here.