West Nile Virus Confirmed by City of Lubbock Health Officials

According to the City of Lubbock, some mosquitoes that were tested in the Lubbock area tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The City of Lubbock vector control will increase spraying in the community targeting areas they laid traps where mosquitoes tested positive.

Symptoms of West Nile Virus include headache, fever, muscle and joint aches, nausea and fatigue. Those with West Nile fever typically recover on their own. Those with a more serious form of the illness, West Nile Neuroinvasive disease, could suffer symptoms such as neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness and paralysis.

However, up to 80% of people who are infected have no symptoms.

There currently are no medications or vaccines for West Nile Virus, but those who are experiencing symptoms and suspect an infection should still contact their local healthcare provider.

You can take these steps to avoid mosquito bites:

• Wearing an EPA registered insect repellent
• Covering up with long-sleeved shirts and pants
• Using air condition or intact window screens to keep mosquitoes out of living areas
• Limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito times
• Dumping standing water around your home

For more info on West Nile virus, visit the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/westnile