FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas – The Fort Bend County Health & Human Services (FBCHHS) Epidemiology Division announced Wednesday the county’s first human case of Neuroinvasive West Nile virus (WNV) for 2026.
The infected patient resides in ZIP code 77478. No other additional information will be released to protect their privacy.
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Along with this case, the FBCHHS Environmental Health Division’s Vector Control Program has identified 36 mosquito samples that tested positive for West Nile virus in Fort Bend County.
“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.”
In late June, Fort Bend County officials conducted aerial mosquito spraying to reduce mosquito populations and protect residents from mosquito-borne illnesses.
The mosquito control effort comes after Fort Bend County Judge Daniel Wong signed a Declaration of Local Public Health Emergency Due to Extraordinary Mosquito Populations on June 16.
How to protect yourself from mosquito bites
Health officials are urging residents to follow the “4 Ds” of mosquito safety:
- Avoid Dusk and Dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Drain standing water around homes and properties.
- Dress in long sleeves and long pants when possible.
- Defend against mosquito bites by using insect repellent containing DEET or other CDC-approved repellents.
Residents with questions about the aerial spraying program can visit the Texas Department of State Health Services aerial mosquito control information page or contact Fort Bend County Health and Human Services Environmental Health Division at 281-342-7469.
County officials encourage residents to continue taking precautions to reduce mosquito breeding areas and protect themselves from bites throughout the summer.