The positive test was indicated in lab results received Sept. 8 from the Texas Department of State Health Services lab in Austin, the release said.
The positive sample was taken from one of three trap sites near the Brushy Creek Community Center, located at 16318 Great Oaks Drive, Round Rock, the release said. It is the second trap to test positive for West Nile virus in two weeks in the Brushy Creek area, it said.
There have been 14 mosquito trap samples that have returned as positive for West Nile virus in Williamson County so far this year—the highest ever recorded since the program started in 2012, the release said. There have also been two human cases of West Nile virus reported in Williamson County this year, it said.
Travis County also continues to report positive samples and cases of West Nile virus.
Symptoms of infection may include fever, headache, body aches, a skin rash on the trunk of the body and swollen lymph nodes. Those age 50 and older and/or with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk for severe symptoms, which may include stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, vision loss, paralysis and in rare cases, death, it said.
Mosquitoes are present in Central Texas year-round, but the population is largest and most active from May through November, the release said.
“The recent rain will create perfect breeding conditions for mosquitoes,” said Jason Fritz, WCCHD Integrated Vector Management Program lead, in the release. “Dumping any amount of standing water around your home and using insect repellent when outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk, is highly recommended now to keep yourself and your family safe from mosquito-borne illness.”
Health officials ask residents to remain vigilant about protecting themselves from mosquito bites and preventing mosquito breeding on their personal property by removing any standing water.
