The first case of West Nile Virus in The Woodlands has been confirmed by state officials.
A 60-year-old South Montgomery County man was reported to have the virus Tuesday, and it is one of six reported cases of West Nile Virus in Texas, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
To combat the growing mosquito population and to slow the spread of the mosquito-borne disease in Montgomery County, Precinct 3 Commissioner James Noack announced Wednesday the implementation of a comprehensive program to protect citizens.
The Mosquito Abatement Program is designated to target mosquito breeding grounds by testing and spraying areas with a large population of adult mosquitos, Charles Cobb, Precinct 3 traffic operations manager, said.
"One thing that the public is not aware of is that we start testing and trapping for West Nile in Mosquitoes as early as May," Cobb said. "We set traps in parks, right of way areas and in residents' backyards with their permission. Once we receive a positive test result, we initiate a treatment protocol to spray the infected area."
Because mosquitoes will become immune to certain chemical formulas if not rotated, Cobb said Precinct 3 keeps a steady circulation of chemicals when spraying hot spots in the area to maintain effectiveness.
"We spray storm drains, catch basins, driveway culverts where mosquitoes tend to hide during the daylight hours," Cobb said. "During the nighttime hours, we spray streets and other right of ways when mosquitoes are more active."
Precinct 3 has a history of West Nile Virus activity with the majority of positive tests popping up in The Woodlands. In 2013 there were three confirmed cases of West Nile Virus in Montgomery County, according to Jennifer Nichols-Contella, Montgomery County Hospital District spokesperson. However in 2012, there were 17 confirmed cases within the county.
"Prevention is a key component," said Dr. Syed Ibrahim, chief epidemiologist at the Montgomery County Public Health District, in a statement. "Residents need to wear protective clothing when outdoors and make their home unattractive to mosquitoes by emptying containers that may collect rainwater and sprinkler water."
The majority of those who contract West Nile Virus will not show any symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, symptoms may include fever, headaches, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea and a rash. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce fever and some symptoms, but those with severe cases need to go the hospital.
