WACO, Texas (KWTX) – The Waco-McLennan Health District confirmed a case of West Nile virus in McLennan County on August 29, the first since 2020.

Public health officials said the resident who contracted the virus was an adult male with no known travel history.

The West Nile virus is transmitted to humans mainly through the bite of an infected mosquito.

“While most people infected with the virus do not show any symptoms, some may experience mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches or rash,” the health department said.

“In rare cases, especially in older people and those with weakened immune systems, the virus can lead to more severe neurological diseases, including encephalitis or meningitis.”

The health department also recommends the following preventive measures:

• Use EPA-approved insect repellents.
• Wear long sleeves and long pants, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Install or repair fly screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
• Eliminate standing water in gutters, flower pots, birdbaths, and other areas where mosquitoes can breed.

Residents are encouraged to report areas of standing water that have existed for a week or longer, as this may be an indication of increased mosquito activity. To do so, call the Health Department at (254)750-5464 for assistance.

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