Amarillo encourages mosquito prevention after reported human case of West Nile virus in Texas

AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — City of Amarillo officials reminds residents that mosquito precaution is a priority following the Texas Department of State Health Services reported first human case of West Nile virus in Texas this year. Officials said a resident in Montgomery County was diagnosed with West Nile fever.

According to the release, TDSHS reported that over 800 mosquitos samples in 24 counties were infected with West Nile virus. COA added that 10 travel-associated dengue cases were also reported this year.

“This information from the state of Texas serves as a reminder to the Amarillo community to always take precautions against mosquitoes,” said City of Amarillo (COA) Director of Environmental Health Anthony Spanel. “During the summer months with so many outdoor activities it can be easy to forget about the presence of mosquitoes. There are many things our community can do to lessen the impact of mosquitoes.”

Officials offer the following tips for residents to help prevent mosquitos:

• Drain all standing water to reduce mosquito breeding areas.
• Dress in long sleeves and pants
• Wear insect repellant with DEET
• Daily: Follow these steps all day and every day

Officials said throughout the summer the COA Environmental Health Department will continue its mosquito spraying program that began in April spraying in locations around the city.

To report mosquito breeding areas residents can contact the COA Environmental Health Department at 806-378-9472 or by email at ehealth@amarillo.gov.

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