Update: The City of Irving will conduct a truck-mounted ultralow volume (ULV) fogging from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m., June 30-July 2 in these areas, weather permitting.
Original Post:
Dallas County Health and Human Services announced on Friday, June 27th, that mosquito samples collected from three pools in Irving have tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). The affected zip codes are 75060, 75061, and 75063. As of this report, the City of Irving has not yet released specific information regarding mosquito spraying schedules in response to these positive findings.
In 2024, Dallas County reported 37 human cases of West Nile Virus, with one case each in Coppell and Grand Prairie, and none in Irving. Tragically, three West Nile-associated deaths were reported in Dallas County during the 2024 season. Statistics for human cases in Dallas County for 2025 are not yet available.
West Nile Virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes contract the virus by feeding on infected birds and can then transmit it to humans and other animals. It is important to note that WNV is not spread through casual contact like touching or kissing. In rare instances, WNV has been transmitted through blood transfusions, organ transplants, breastfeeding, and from mother to baby during pregnancy.
Symptoms of West Nile Virus:
Most individuals infected with WNV will experience no symptoms. For those who do develop symptoms, they typically appear 3 to 14 days after a mosquito bite.
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Mild Infection (West Nile Fever): Up to 20% of infected individuals may experience mild flu-like symptoms, including headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, swollen lymph glands, and a skin rash on the chest, stomach, and back. These symptoms usually last a few days.
- Serious Infection: Approximately one in 150 people infected with WNV will develop severe illness such as West Nile Encephalitis, West Nile Meningitis, or West Nile Meningoencephalitis. Symptoms can include severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, and high fever. These more serious symptoms can persist for several weeks or months, and in some cases, lead to permanent neurological effects. In rare circumstances, WNV can be fatal.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Diagnosis of WNV requires a specialized blood test. Anyone experiencing symptoms of severe WNV illness should seek medical attention promptly. There is currently no specific treatment for WNV infection; patients receive supportive medical care and rehabilitation as needed.
