AMARILLO, TEXAS -- The number of cases of West Nile Virus has now risen to 10 cases in Randall County, officials announced Friday morning.
"We know that West Nile Virus is endemic to Texas, meaning we’ll see infections every year" said Dr. Matt Richardson, Director of Public Health for the City of Amarillo. "As with many areas of Texas, the Panhandle is seeing more cases this year than in the last several years."
Health officials in the Amarillo metro area are warning residents about the danger of the virus and how urging them to defend themselves.
"West Nile Virus is here and it’s time to concentrate on prevention to protect ourselves and our families," said Director of Evironmental Health Deree Duke. "Many people enjoy outdoor activities during the Labor Day weekend and that’s why it’s even more important to take measures to avoid mosquitoes."
Duke said the Environmental Health Department is continuing to larvacide known areas of standing water and monitor the adult mosquito population.
"West Nile Virus can be a serious illness," said Dr. Smalligan, Health Authority for Potter and Randall Counties. "Most people experience a mild fever and sometimes flu-like symptoms, but this disease can progress into more serious neurological issues. We are emphasizing these increasing cases to make sure the public understands that avoiding mosquito bites is the best way to avoid the disease."
Health officials recommend the following "4 D's" to prevent mosqito bites:
DRAIN standing or stagnant water around your property if possible, including wading pools, pet dishes, bird baths, tires, buckets and rain gutters
DRESS appropriately when outdoors
DUSK/DAWN: avoid exposure to mosquitoes when they are most active
DEET: use a mosquito repellent containing DEET when enjoying outdoor activities
More information on mosquito bite prevention can be found here.
