DALLAS — The first case of the West Nile virus in Texas in 2022 has been confirmed. Dallas County Health and Human Services reported that a resident in Dallas County was diagnosed with the virus.

West Nile virus is transmitted through mosquito bites, and while most people who get the virus don’t get sick, about 20% develop symptoms including fatigue, headache and fever. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, less than 1% of people who get the virus will face more serious symptoms if it affects the nervous system. These symptoms include convulsions, tremors, seizures and even death.

To protect yourself from getting bitten by mosquitoes, there are three steps to follow:

  1. Wear long sleeves and pants. Cover up exposed skin.
  2. Apply insect repellent. EPA-registered repellents containing DEET.
  3. Remove standing water since mosquitoes can breed in them. This includes buckets, trash cans, tires and plant pots.

You can keep mosquitoes out of your home by turning on the air conditioner and making sure windows and door screens are intact.

There were 112 cases of the West Nile Virus in Texas last year and 14 deaths.​