As of April 7, 2017 the CDC has recommended testing for pregnant residents of the lower Rio Grande Valley. Testing is recommended for all pregnant women at their first prenatal care visit and again in their second trimester. Also testing is recommended for other residents of those counties who exhibit a rash and at least one other common Zika symptom, either fever, joint pain, or conjunctivitis (red eyes).
A mild winter prevented a break in the mosquito season in the southernmost areas of the Rio Grande Valley, and Zika virus transmission continues in Northern Mexico. As the temperatures continue to warm the mosquito population will only continue to grow. Zika virus is primarily spread to people through mosquito bites. The virus can be spread from mother to child. Spread of the virus through blood transfusion and sexual contact has also been reported.
DSHS provides updates every Tuesday on the number of Zika virus disease cases in Texas by the patient’s county of residence. As of the week ending April 28, 11 Zika cases have been reported for 2017, with 322 cases reported for 2015 and 2016.
- Bexar – 1
- Brazoria – 1
- Brazos – 1
- Cameron – 2
- Collin – 1
- Dallas – 1
- Denton – 1
- Lubbock – 1
- Smith – 2
Although you can’t stay on top of every mosquito outside your home, you can help prevent staying indoors by installing a mosquito control misting system. A mosquito control misting system can help you reduce your mosquito population by up to 85% in your own backyard. Take control of your outdoor areas and stay protected against mosquitoes, not only are they a nuisance but they also can carry the Zika virus, West Nile, and Dengue fever. Visit our website for more information on mosquito control misting systems.
