MIDLAND COUNTY, Texas — According to the City of Midland, the West Nile Virus has been confirmed in Midland County for the first time this year.
Midland Health Services places mosquito traps all throughout the county. The Department of State Health Services then tests the mosquitos for diseases.
The state alerted the City of Midland that some of the mosquitos have tested positive for the virus.
According to the release, the incubation period for the virus is typically two to six days but can last 14 days. For immunocompromised people, it could last several weeks.
About 70-80% of human WNV infections are asymptomatic. People who do experience symptoms feel headaches or weakness among other symptoms. Gastrointestinal symptoms as well as a discolored rash have also been reported.
Health Services urges people to "not give mosquitos a biting chance" by following several tips including wearing long sleeves and pants, applying insect repellent and removing standing water. This includes emptying out water that gets in toys, tires, trash cans, buckets and other surfaces. This will not allow mosquitos a place to lay their eggs and reproduce.