Collin County sees first West Nile virus death in 2024

Health authorities have confirmed the first death in Collin County attributed to West Nile virus this year, raising concerns as the total number of deaths in North Texas reaches four.

Earlier this summer, two cases of West Nile were reported in Collin County. Although one case led to a fatal outcome, the exact date of death remains unclear, according to WFAA News, as the county's arbovirus activity report provides only limited details.

In addition to Collin County, neighboring Dallas, Denton and Tarrant counties have each reported one West Nile virus-related death. The increase in cases has prompted local health officials to step up preventive measures and increase public awareness of the virus.

West Nile virus is transmitted primarily through mosquito bites, and health experts urge residents to adhere to the “Four Ds” to reduce the risk of infection.

1. DEET: Apply insect repellent containing this chemical to prevent insect bites.
2. Clothing: Wear long, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to reduce exposure to mosquitoes.
3. Drain: It is important to eliminate any standing water around your home and workplace, as these areas can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
4. Dusk to Dawn: Minimize outdoor activities from dusk to dawn during peak mosquito activity.

The Collin County Health Department, according to WFAA News, has reported that 19 mosquito traps tested positive for West Nile virus.

Denton County Public Health also reported the first human case of West Nile virus for the year in late July.

Earlier in May, Tarrant County Public Health revealed that a mosquito sample from Arlington also tested positive for the virus, according to Dallas Express. A 67-year-old Parker County man died of complications from West Nile virus in early July.

In addition, Dallas County Health and Human Services confirmed that mosquito samples from ZIP code 75115 in DeSoto and ZIP code 75104 in Cedar Hill have tested positive for West Nile virus.

CDC reported that in 2023 the US had 2,566 cases of West Nile virus, including 1,738 “neuroinvasive” cases and 182 deaths. From 1999 to 2023, there were 59,141 cases, with 30,422 labeled as “neuroinvasive.”