West Nile virus detected in G’town mosquito traps

The West Nile virus — which is carried and passed on by mosquitoes — was detected in Georgetown Thursday after two mosquito trap samples tested positive for the virus.

The positive results were announced in a press release after being confirmed by the Texas Department of State Health Services lab in Austin earlier that day.

The mosquitos were collected from two locations: Geneva Park, 1021 Quail Valley Drive, and in Berry Creek, at Diamond Dove Trail and Airport Road.

West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the country. Common symptoms include fever, headache, skin rash on the lower body, swollen lymph nodes and body aches.

Severe symptoms are most common in adults 50 and older or people with compromised immune systems. They include stiffness, disorientation, tremors, vision loss, paralysis and comas. The disease can cause death, although such a severe infection is rare.

Testing for the West Nile virus is conducted through Georgetown’s participation in the Williamson County and Cities Health Distrcit’s Integrated Vector Management program. While the virus has been detected in four mosquito sample pools in Williamson County this year, there have been no reported incidences of human infection.

“City of Georgetown parks staff will continue mosquito control efforts with the treatment of standing water with larvicide and WCCHD will continue enhanced monitoring and testing, along with increased public outreach and education,” the press release reads. “The city is prepared to take additional action if necessary.”

City staff and the health district encourage residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites when outdoors. Protective measures can include using repellents, dressing in clothing with long pants and sleeves, and frequently draining any standing water — which is where mosquitos breed — found in flowerpots, pet dishes, clogged gutters and other areas, as well as treating water that cannot be drained.

Additional information is available online at www.wcchd.org or at the Texas Department of State Health Services West Nile website, txwestnile.org.

— Brigid Cooley