West Nile virus cases confirmed in Hays County; how to prevent transmission

By Kaylee Gonzalez

Assistant Director, News Reporter

SAN MARCOS— Hays County confirms multiple pools of the West Nile virus in Buda, Kyle, and San Marcos, TX, including the county’s first confirmed human case in San Marcos.

As the weather in Central Texas heats up, mosquito activity increases, creating more opportunities for the West Nile virus.

PreventionWeb reported that nearly all cities in the U.S. experienced an increase in mosquito disease days compared to the early 1970s.

Kate Esqueda, community health services manager at the Hays County Health Department, said the West Nile virus is a disease carried by mosquitoes, transmitted to humans and animals through their bites.

She said there are three categories of symptoms of the virus to look out for.

“The first category, 80% of people, which is the majority, will be completely asymptomatic,” said Esqueda.

“And then 20% of people will have flu-like symptoms and a rash, potentially. Less than 1% of people who will have the neuroinvasive form of the disease might have things like confusion, muscle weakness or things that could affect the central nervous system, like meningitis, encephalitis, or acute flaccid myelitis.”

Esqueda said those most at risk are people over the age of 50, those with certain health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure and cancer patients.

Although the virus can seem intimidating, Esqueda said Hays County residents shouldn’t be alarmed and can take precautions to minimize exposure.

She recommended wearing loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and using EPA-registered repellent.

For students and residents looking to take extra precautions around their apartments or homes, mosquito control can also reduce the number of mosquitoes in the area.

Sean Nieto, owner of Mosquito Hunters of West Austin-Hays County, said one of the most important steps residents can take is to get rid of any standing water where mosquitoes can breed.

“Like pet bowls outside… bird baths, that’s one,” Nieto said. “One that people miss a lot that we look for is saucers under plants… that water will pool in that saucer, and that’s perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes.”

Nieto said he recommends wearing light-colored clothing because mosquitoes are attracted to darker colors, mistaking them for shade.

He also suggested using insect repellent, especially ones containing DEET, which he said are very effective.

Nieto said if residents notice an unusual amount of mosquitoes around their homes, it could be an indication of a larger problem that may require a professional mosquito company.

He added that mosquito control companies are able to handle treatments and situations that residents may not be certified to do.

As mosquito activity continues throughout the warmer months, Esqueda and Nieto encourage residents and students to continue taking simple precautions to protect themselves.

For any updates about the West Nile virus and questions about mosquito control, residents can follow the Hays County Health Department and contact Mosquito Hunters of West Austin-Hays County.