West Nile Virus is Here
The CDC is reporting cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) again this year. As of September 29, 2025, there have been 1,137 cases reported within the US, with 742 being neuroinvasive, and fourty-two states are reporting confirmed cases. Texas has 41 cases thus far with 2 cases recorded in Midland County.
West Nile is transmitted seasonally via infected mosquito bites, and the Midland Health department has confirmed WNV in mosquitoes within the county beginning in early May. The virus is transmitted by an infected mosquito bite, and symptoms can range from mild flu-like illnesses to severe neurological complications.
Mild symptoms include fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a skin rash. Severe symptoms include high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, muscle weakness, tremors, convulsions and paralysis. Symptoms usually last for more than one day. About 1 in 5 people infected with WNV develop more serious symptoms. Although people of any age can become severely ill, the risk is highest for people > 50 years or recipients of solid organ transplants.
Simple measures can help prevent infection:
· If possible, cover up; wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
· Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents with DEET.
· Empty standing water and installing screens if opening windows.
· Mosquitoes are more prone to biting during dawn & dusk, so stay inside during those times.
If you develop symptoms after being bitten by a mosquito, you should contact your healthcare provider. There is no specific medicine to treat West Nile Virus, but symptoms can be managed with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers.