APH cautions about Zika, West Nile virus as temperatures heat up
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AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin Public Health officials are gearing up for what could be a busy mosquito season, testing and watching multiple mosquito pools in the area.
The greater Austin area becomes ripe for mosquitoes from the springtime through the fall, as temperatures rise and precipitation falls to the ground. Despite their pesky annoyance, APH cautioned residents mosquitoes can carry a variety of illnesses, including Zika, West Nile, dengue fever, encephalitis and canine heartworm.
Just last year, three West Nile virus cases were reported in Travis County, including one death. In that same 2023 season, 48 mosquito pools tested positive for West Nile virus, per an APH release.
“The sun is out, and everyone is excited to get back to their favorite spring and summer activities. Let’s make sure that we’re taking quick steps to protect ourselves and fully enjoy this time of year,” Austin-Travis County Health Authority Dr. Desmar Walkes said in the release. “Wearing long sleeves and pants, putting on repellant and clearing out standing water will protect yourself and others from mosquitoes and the diseases they carry.”
Typically, mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus are most likely to be active in the dawn and dusk timeframe, per the release. When outside, loose-fitted and light-colored clothing can help detract mosquitoes, as does insect repellant.
Property owners should inspect their yards or neighborhoods to remove any standing water that might be settling in old tires, flowerpots, clogged rain gutters, birdbaths and other sites. More details on how to keep yourself safe are available online.