SUGAR LAND, TEXAS — A mosquito pool in Sugar Land, Texas, tested positive for the West Nile virus. The positive sample was collected on May 27 near the intersection of Lexington Boulevard and Sugar Crossing, according to city officials.
Following the positive test, officials are increasing mosquito mitigation efforts. There are currently no reported human cases of West Nile virus in Sugar Land.
Recent rainfall in the area has created conditions that are favorable for mosquito breeding. The city performs routine mosquito treatments every Friday. City officials plan additional treatments in affected inlets, manholes, and drainage ditches. The Environmental Protection Agency has approved the insecticide used for these treatments.
West Nile virus symptoms can initially include fever, headache, and muscle aches. These symptoms may progress to more severe conditions.
Sugar Land city officials recommend several precautions to residents. These include using insect repellent containing DEET, wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors, and taking extra precautions during dusk and dawn. Officials also advise removing standing water from containers.
Dr. Carrie Bakunas, a physician at Memorial Hermann, provided guidance on severe symptoms. "If you have symptoms such as confusion, neck stiffness, difficulty walking or speaking, that is an emergency, and you need to go to the hospital right away." Bakunas said.