The overview
Eight mosquito samples have tested positive since the Williamson County and Cities Health District began testing this year, according to the release.
In line with the WCCHD’s best practices for mosquito management, Georgetown city officials will continue with enhanced monitoring efforts, increased public outreach, and education and control efforts, such as treating standing water with larvicide.
Truck-mounted spraying will also reduce the amount of adult mosquitoes in the area.
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According to the WCCHD, symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph nodes.
People age 50 and older as well as those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for severe symptoms.
As part of the WCCHD’s Fight the Bite campaign, which focuses on eliminating places where mosquitoes can breed and reducing mosquito bites, health officials recommend:
- Draining any standing water
- Treating standing water with Environmental Protection Agency-approved larvicides
- Protecting and cleaning pools and ponds
- Cleaning bird baths once a week
- Fixing water leaks
- Using EPA-registered insect repellent
- Dressing in long sleeves and pants
- Installing screens on windows and doors
- Keeping grass short
