The Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) has announced the confirmation of the fourth and fifth human West Nile virus cases of the year on Friday.
The 4th case who lives in the 75234 zip code in Farmers Branch, was diagnosed with West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease. The 5th case who lives in the 75223 zip code in Dallas, was diagnosed with West Nile fever. For medical confidentiality and personal privacy reasons, DCHHS does not provide additional identifying information.
“We want our residents to know the mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus are here and they’re active,” said Zachary Thompson, DCHHS director. “Our mosquito surveillance program and the county and municipal abatement teams are taking appropriate actions to ensure the safety of our residents. However, it is important for residents to take the necessary precautions.”
Most people who become infected with West Nilevirus have either no symptoms or have only mild symptoms. However a small percentage of people infected can develop meningitis or encephalitis.Meningitis is an infection of the lining around the brain, while encephalitis is an infection of the brain itself. Both of these can be fatal, especially in the elderly.
“Since there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatments for WNV infection, residents should adhere to preventive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Dr. Christopher Perkins, DCHHS medical director/health authority. For more infectious disease news and information, visit and “like” the Infectious Disease News Facebook page
Related: Texas: 1st imported chikungunya case reported in Mansfield
