Here’s how you can keep yourself safe.
SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio public health officials say a mosquito pool on the north side tested positive for West Nile Virus, the first such detection of the year.
The pool is in the area of Blanco and West Avenue, which Metro Health says will be treated Wednesday after he virus was detected.
“Residents should remain inside during the time sprayers area in the area,” Metro Health said in a release, adding treatment could be delayed depending on weather conditions.
West Nile, which is typically spread through mosquito bites, can result in fever, headaches, body aches, vomiting or rash, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). While most people infected with West Nile Virus won’t experience symptoms, it can result in neurological illness in rare cases.
Ninety-eight human causes have been reported across 23 U.S. states so far this year; that includes nine cases in Texas. There were at least three instances of West Nile being detected in mosquitos in Bexar County last year, as well as 12 human disease cases, the CDC says.
Metro Health provided tips to reduce your risk of contracting West Nile Virus, including getting of standing water by emptying, scrubbing or throwing out items like buckets, pools, toys, or trash containers with water. You can also use insect repellant or wear long-sleeved clothes to prevent yourself from being bitten by mosquitos.
While inside, make sure to use air conditioning and keep windows and doors secured to keep mosquitos out.