HEALTH SERVICES: MIDLAND COUNTY RESIDENT CONFIRMED WITH WEST NILE VIRUS

(Sept. 10, 2025) 

MIDLAND, TEXAS -- Midland Health Services has confirmed West Nile Virus (WNV) in a Midland County resident for the first time this year.

Mosquitoes can carry WNV after they feed on infected birds. The infected mosquitoes can then spread the disease to humans through a mosquito bite.

This disease cannot be spread person-to-person. Eighty (80) percent of those infected show no symptoms at all. For people who do develop symptoms, they can include headache, fever, muscle and joint aches, nausea and fatigue. About 1 in 150 people may develop central nervous system infections and can experience additional symptoms of neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, paralysis, meningitis, encephalitis and even death.

While there are no medications to treat or vaccines to these infections, fest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain medications will relieve the symptoms of those infected. People older than 50 years old and those with other health issues are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill.

If people have symptoms and suspect West Nile virus infection, they should contact their health care provider and inform them of previous mosquito exposure. Please take steps to reduce mosquito bites. These include:

• Wearing an EPA registered insect repellant

• Covering up with long-sleeves and pants

• Keeping mosquitoes out of living areas by using air conditioning or intact window screens

• Limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito times (sunrise and sunset)

• Dumping standing water around your home.

For more information on West Nile virus visit the DSHS website at: https://dshs.texas.gov/idcu/disease/arboviral/westNile/