3 people likely infected with West Nile virus, Austin health officials say

Austin Public Health said it has found 31 mosquito pools this year that have tested positive for West Nile Virus across Austin-Travis County.

At least three people are likely to have been infected with West Nile, officials reported Friday.

In August, Austin Public Health reported that it had detected West Nile in 14 mosquitoes pools this year, with two likely cases of human infection. This was up from a report of five pools and one human case in July.

ZIP codes where Austin Public Health has found the virus pools are 78728, 78754, 78731, 78756, 78751, 78722, 78721, 78701, and 78704.

West Nile is typically spread through mosquito bites. Most people infected with the virus do not get sick, according to Austin Public Health. However, about 20% of people will develop a fever with mild, flu-like symptoms, including headache and body aches. Severe symptoms, which are most common in those over 50, include disorientation, coma, and vision loss.

Mosquitoes are present in the area year round but most active May through November, when Austin Public Health actively tests the pools for viruses like West Nile. The agency encouraged residents to drain any standing water on their property. Officials also encourage the use of mosquito repellent, and dress in loose fitting pants and long sleeves when outside.

Officials said Travis County did not have any positive pools or human cases of West Nile in 2019. A 2012 outbreak led to six people in Travis County dying from the illness.

Mosquito update: There have been 31 total mosquito pools positive for West Nile Virus this year across Austin-Travis County.

Don't forget to drain standing water on and around your property! #FightTheBite

https://t.co/9fixUxSiEk pic.twitter.com/NdfbqaDSm9

-- Austin Public Health (@AusPublicHealth) September 25, 2020

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