Alice, Texas - Jim Wells County Vector Control & Inspection has responded to Detection of West Nile Positive Mosquito in Jim Wells County. Vector Control & Safety Officer Emede Gonzalez is notifying the public that a mosquito (1) trapped Tuesday July 30, 2024, has "Tested Positive" for West Nile Virus.
In response to the detection of the West Nile Virus, spraying of the impacted location has begun on August 7, 2024, up to 1/2 mile radius or more. The infected mosquito was trapped at the corner of CR 129 and FM 1554.
Jim Wells County has been in contact with Region 1 Dr. Ronald D. Tyler to assure that our Vector Control response reduces the threat of West Nile transmission. This is the first time "ever" we have detected a West Nile infected mosquito in Jim Wells County.
There are currently no identified human West Nile infections in our region. People impacted by West Nile Virus will be asymptomatic or develop mild flu-like illness however in rare cases, West Nile Virus infection can cause central nervous system damage and even death.
With recent detection in neighboring Counties, Jim Wells County has increased preventative measures by increased spraying, trapping, and testing in problem areas. Moving forward, Jim Wells County will complete the recommended three days spraying, trapping, and send the samples for testing in the impacted area.
We respectfully as the community to practice good mosquito bite prevention practices. The community is urged to avoid and reduce outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. For outdoor activities during these time frames, the Texas Health Services Department recommends residents wear long pants and long sleeve shirts and use mosquito repellent that contains the DEET. You can also prevent mosquito breeding around your home and business by clearing any standing water including bucket's, tires, fountains, or bird feeders that are prone to mosquito breeding.
Jim Wells County will continue to go above and beyond recommended protocols and procedures to make sure our constitutes are safe. We will continue to keep the community up to date as information is available.
Respectfully,
Pedro "Pete" Trevino Jr.
Jim Wells County Judge