Positive Human Case of West Nile Virus Confirmed in Tarrant County

Positive Human Case of West Nile Virus Confirmed in Tarrant County

Aug. 12, 2021 (Tarrant County, TX) – Tarrant County Public Health (TCPH) has confirmed the first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) for the 2021 season. The first positive mosquito pool was reported on April 21.

The individual involved is a resident of Fort Worth and contracted the more serious neuroinvasive disease. The person is over 65 and has been discharged from the hospital to continue to recover. Additional details are not being released to protect the identity of the patient.

For the 2020 season, TCPH has reported 43 human cases of West Nile disease -- including six human deaths. The data for these cases is provisional at this time. The final data is expected to be confirmed by the Texas Department of State Health Services in the last quarter of this year.

The mild form of the disease is commonly referred to as West Nile fever. Symptoms include headache, fever, muscle and joint aches, nausea and fatigue.  People typically recover on their own, although symptoms may last for several weeks.

The more severe form is often referred to as West Nile neuroinvasive disease. Symptoms include neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness and paralysis. This form of the disease can be deadly.

TCPH reminds residents of the importance of taking personal protective measures to safeguard against West Nile Virus. Residents should routinely dump standing water on their property, use EPA-approved insect repellent, and dress in long sleeves and pants.

TCPH’s video Mosquitoes Love Water has tips to show residents how to take control of their property and help protect their neighbors. You can also view the following videos: Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites and Barrier Treatments to Prevent Mosquitoes.

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