Last night, we got this message from Austin Public Health and Austin Independent School District:
A batch of different types of mosquito breeds are seen after being collected by the City of Austin in 2016. AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN
In recent weeks, Austin Public Health has seen an increase in mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile Virus in the Austin area.
We’d like to remind you of symptoms and preventative steps because we know this is a time of year when families and students are spending a lot of time outdoors.
Most people infected with West Nile Virus do not have any signs or symptoms. However, if you do see symptoms such as fever, headache, tiredness, body aches or skin rash, seek medical attention.
Some preventative measures for your family are:
- The best defense is with an EPA-approved insect repellent. Follow directions and apply as directed. epa.gov/insect-repellents
- Stay inside when mosquitoes are active. For most mosquitoes in the U.S., activity peaks during the dusk hours.
- If you have to be outside, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants that are light colored. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors.
- Drain any water that collects around your home. Mosquitoes need only a teaspoon of water to breed.
For more information on preventative measures, visit cdc.gov/features/StopMosquitoes/ or austintexas.gov/health.
We look forward to seeing everyone back at school Aug. 20.
Thank you,
City of Austin Health and Human Services and Austin ISD
This follows news that mosquitoes in Cedar Park tested positive for West Nile.
In July, Travis County was put on alert for one West Nile case.
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Looking for ideas on how to prevent mosquitoes? Last year we tested 16 repellents to see which ones worked best. Hint: DEET matters.
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