Fort Bend County Confirms First Human West Nile Virus Case of 2026, Urges Residents to Take Mosquito Precautions
As mosquito season reaches its peak across Southeast Texas, Fort Bend County health officials are asking residents to take extra precautions after confirming the county's first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in 2026.
The case, confirmed July 1 by the Fort Bend County Health & Human Services (FBCHHS) Epidemiology Division, involves a resident living in ZIP code 77478. County officials are not releasing additional information in order to protect the patient's privacy.
The announcement serves as an important reminder that West Nile virus remains a seasonal concern throughout the Houston region during the summer and early fall. While most people infected with the virus never become seriously ill, public health officials say preventing mosquito bites remains the best defense for individuals and families.
Mosquito surveillance shows continued West Nile virus activity in Fort Bend County
Along with confirming the first human case, FBCHHS reported that its Environmental Health Division's Vector Control Program has identified 36 mosquito samples that tested positive for West Nile virus throughout Fort Bend County this year.
The county conducts mosquito surveillance year-round, monitoring mosquito populations and testing them for viruses that can affect public health. When positive mosquito samples are identified, the information helps guide targeted surveillance and mosquito control efforts where appropriate.
"This confirmed human case underscores the importance of preventing mosquito bites, as mosquitoes can spread diseases such as West Nile virus and dengue," said Dr. Letosha Gale-Lowe, Director and Local Health Authority for Fort Bend County Health & Human Services. "The best way to protect yourself and your family is to use insect repellent, wear protective clothing outdoors, eliminate standing water around your home and avoid being outdoors during dusk and dawn, when mosquitos are most active."
What Fort Bend County residents should know about West Nile virus
West Nile virus is most commonly spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. According to Fort Bend County Health & Human Services, it may also be transmitted through blood transfusions or organ transplantation, but it cannot be spread through casual contact, such as touching or kissing someone who has the virus.
Most people infected with West Nile virus never develop symptoms. However, about one in five infected individuals experience a mild illness that may include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches or joint pain
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Rash
In rare cases, the virus can lead to serious neurological disease, particularly among adults over age 60 and people with certain underlying medical conditions. Additional severe symptoms can include neck stiffness, muscle weakness or tremors, and confusion.
There is currently no specific medication to treat West Nile virus. Most mild cases improve with rest, fluids and over-the-counter pain relievers, while severe cases may require hospitalization and supportive medical care.
Follow the "4 Ds" to reduce your risk
Fort Bend County Health & Human Services encourages residents to practice the "4 Ds" of mosquito safety throughout the summer:
- Avoid Dusk and Dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Drain standing water around your home, including flowerpots, birdbaths, gutters, buckets and other containers where mosquitoes can breed.
- Dress in long sleeves and long pants when practical while outdoors.
- Defend yourself by using insect repellents containing DEET or other CDC-approved active ingredients.
The department also recommends using window and door screens and regularly checking both indoor and outdoor areas for containers that can collect water.
Get Help
Residents seeking additional information about mosquito surveillance, prevention efforts or West Nile virus can visit the Fort Bend County Mosquito Control webpage or contact Fort Bend County Health & Human Services at 281-238-3500 with questions.
As mosquito activity typically continues through the summer and into the fall, taking a few simple precautions now can help reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses for families across Fort Bend County.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for additional Fort Bend County public health updates and community news.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
