Mosquito outbreak leads to spike in West Nile virus cases in Harris County

Houston – Harris County Officials have reported a significant increase in West Nile virus cases detected in local mosquito populations. As of this week, 520 WNV-positive pools have been identified throughout Harris County and the Houston area. A “pool” refers to a sample of one to 50 mosquitoes that have been tested for the virus.

The virus was detected in 168 of the county's 216 operational areas, a notable increase compared to previous years, surpassing the 15 cases in 2023 and 316 cases in 2021. The increase is due in part to the effectiveness of a new qPCR testing platform that is five times more efficient than previous methods. This advanced technology provides results in seven to eight hours, significantly faster than the two days required by the older system.

Previous coverage: Harris County: First West Nile Virus mosquito sample of 2024 found

So far this year, Harris County has had seven confirmed cases of West Nile virus, including six in adults over 50 and one in someone under 18. Several adults have also been hospitalized with symptoms associated with the virus, including fever, headache, body aches and gastrointestinal problems, but those numbers have not been confirmed.

Additionally, the county has reported two cases of dengue virus, linked to recent travel to areas where the virus is endemic. No deaths or updates have been reported regarding these cases.

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Recent weather conditions such as heavy rains and high humidity have contributed to the proliferation of mosquito populations, creating ideal breeding sites for mosquitoes and making mosquito-borne diseases difficult to control.

Culex mosquitoes, which frequently infest homes and are known to spread disease, thrive in these conditions. Culex mosquito eggs usually hatch into larvae within five to seven days, causing mosquito populations to skyrocket.

Harris County officials have advised residents to be vigilant and take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, and efforts are being stepped up to treat and increase surveillance in affected areas.

Officials stress the importance of reducing standing water around the home and maintaining regular mosquito control measures to reduce the impact of these diseases. County website. Here are some more tips from Harris County Public Health:

“Chip, toss, I take action“

Tip
Follow these simple tips to prevent mosquito breeding sites around your home, especially right after a weather change:
Tip Or, discard accumulated water in pet bowls, flower pots, tires, buckets, and other containers.
If you have a bird bath, change the water every 3 to 5 days.

Throw it away
Mosquitoes can also breed in areas with stagnant water that are hidden from human view. To reduce mosquito breeding in covered areas, follow these tips:
· Throw it away Clear away debris, trash, and other unnecessary items around the house.
· Clear clogged drains and downspouts.
·  …
· Don't pour lawn clippings, leaves and trash down storm drains as they block water flow and create the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes.

I take action
There are also several ways I take action It can reduce mosquito populations.
Use insect repellent. When using mosquito repellent, pay attention to the following:
When outdoors, apply an EPA-registered repellent to yourself and your loved ones.
Use only as directed on product label.
Do not use insect repellents on babies under 2 months of age.
Products containing lemon eucalyptus oil (OLE) or paramenthanediol (PMD) should not be used by children under 3 years of age.
· Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks, if possible.
Where water cannot be covered, dumped or removed and is not used for drinking, treat standing water with insecticides. Insecticides are insecticides that kill mosquitoes at the early developmental stage (larvae) before they become adults. They are sold in liquid tablets, pellets, granules and briquettes and are available at most hardware stores. Insecticides are safe for the environment. Follow the directions on the insecticide you use.
· Close outdoor faucets completely to prevent leaks. Repair any faucets that continue to leak.
· Install screens that fit snugly over doors and windows.