Dallas County officials on Thursday reported the first positive human case of West Nile virus for this year.
The patient was diagnosed with West Nile Non-Neuroinvasive disease, according to a news release. Officials didn’t identify the individual for privacy reasons, but described him as a Dallas resident in his early 40s.
The announcement came several weeks after a report of Tarrant County’s first West Nile virus case of 2025.
Related:Texas officials report first West Nile cases of the year, urge mosquito precautions
D-FW Public Health Alerts
As of Thursday, officials said they have found a total of 98 West Nile Virus-positive mosquito pools in Dallas County, with the first one this year being reported in May.
There were 37 reported human cases and three deaths for the 2024 season, according to Dallas County health officials.
West Nile virus spreads through mosquito bites.
About 80% of people who catch the virus will not experience symptoms. The remaining 20% will feel fever, fatigue and nausea, among other ailments. Fewer than 1% of those infected will develop more severe symptoms, which can be fatal.
Health officials encourage people to protect themselves against mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and pants, applying insect repellent and clearing standing water from their yards and outdoor spaces.
“With the first West Nile virus human case, it’s an important reminder that prevention is key,” Dr. Philip Huang, director of Dallas County Health and Human Services, said in the news release.
Staff writer Emily Brindley contributed to this report.