City of Denton Moves to Risk Level 4 After West Nile Virus Detected in Multiple Mosquito Traps

The City of Denton has confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in mosquitoes trapped at Denia Park and South Lakes Park. The mosquitoes, collected last week, tested positive for West Nile virus at each site.

Because multiple mosquito pools tested positive for West Nile virus at different times and locations, Denton will move to risk level 4. No human cases have been confirmed at this time.

At risk level 4, the City will enhance surveillance at the positive test sites while continuing to conduct routine surveys of adult mosquitoes, which will be identified to species level and screened for the presence of the virus.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, which acquires the virus from feeding on infected birds. The virus can lead to serious illness or even death.

Residents are advised to take the following precautions:

• Eliminate standing water: Remove standing water around your home, as it serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Common sites include old tires, flowerpots, and clogged rain gutters.
• Avoid outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours: Stay indoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Dress appropriately: Wear long sleeves and long pants when outside.
• Use insect repellent: Apply repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus whenever outdoors.

The City offers a limited supply of Bti briquettes, which kill mosquito larva. Proof of residency is required (driver's license or City of Denton utility bill) with a limit of two per resident. Residents can pick up the Bti briquettes from the following distribution locations:

• Customer Service, 601 E. Hickory St., Ste F, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• City of Denton Composting, 1100 S. Mayhill Rd., Tuesday-Saturday, 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

While the probability of human outbreak is moderate to high, individuals over 50 years old and those with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of severe illness if infected with West Nile virus. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, drowsiness, stiff neck, vision problems, body tremors, mental confusion, memory loss, and seizures. While most people infected with West Nile virus will show no symptoms and recover on their own, those experiencing concerning symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately.

For more information on prevention and safety tips, visit www.cityofdenton.com/westnile.

Contact: Dustin Sternbeck, (940) 349-8251, [email protected]

(About Denton) Denton is a community like no other - we're welcoming, innovative, creative, diverse, unique and authentic. The City is a vibrant and growing community with many opportunities, no matter what your interest or passion. You're free to be whoever you are in a friendly atmosphere with a small-town vibe that's just a short drive away from the big city. And we invite your friends to discover Denton, too!

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