However, there are no reported human cases of West Nile Virus in Hutto. The last reported case in Williamson County was in 2014.
The positive test result came from the city’s participation in the Williamson County and Cities Health District’s mosquito management program. The health district sets traps at two locations in Hutto, one at Fritz Park and one at Creekside Park. A sample taken Sept. 20 from Creekside tested positive. Lab results from the Texas Department of State Health Services lab in Austin were reported to the city Sept. 27.
Due to the proximity of outdoor activities and neighborhoods, the city of Hutto and the health district reminded residents and visitors of the area to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
What you can do
According to a release from the city of Hutto, mosquitoes breed in standing or stagnant water. Eliminating where they can breed and reducing the chances of mosquito butes are the most effective lines of defense against exposure to West Nile Virus.
The three D’s of defense
1. Drain standing water in flower pots, pet dishes or clogged gutters so mosquitoes don’t have a place to breed, and treat water that can’t be drained.
2. Defend by using an insect repellent approved by the Environmental Protection Agency.
3. Dress in long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
The city’s code enforcement division will focus on mosquito abatement throughout the community. The city asks residents to report stagnant water on public or private property to the code enforcement division at www.huttotx.gov/requesttracker, the HuttoNow app on mobile devices or email [email protected].
Enhanced monitoring and testing will continue.
