Central Texas is experiencing historic rainfall, prompting Austin Public Health (APH) to advise the public on mosquito precautions. The increase in wet weather conditions may lead to a rise in the mosquito population, increasing the risk of diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika.
“We’re in the midst of mosquito season this year, and this massive rainfall will raise the risk of mosquito-borne diseases in our community,” said Marcel Elizondo, Environmental Health Services Division Chief. “We urge everyone to follow the 4 Ds to protect yourself, family members and neighbors.”
The Texas Department of State Health Services has reported the first West Nile virus case of 2025 in Brazos County. Mosquitoes are known carriers of diseases that can lead to infections like Zika, West Nile, dengue fever, encephalitis, and canine heartworm.
In 2024, there were 101 local mosquito pools that tested positive for the virus. Preliminary results from the Texas Department of State Health Services indicate that Austin-Travis County had 33 West Nile virus cases with two resulting deaths.
“This has been a wetter and cooler summer so far, a combination which mosquitoes thrive in,” stated Adrienne Sturrup, Director of Austin Public Health. “Let’s do what we know works to stay safe. Dress appropriately, use repellent and clear out standing water to keep mosquitoes away.”
To combat mosquitoes effectively during both day and night hours, APH recommends following these Four Ds:
1. **Dusk and dawn**: Mosquito species that spread West Nile virus are most active between dusk and dawn.
2. **Dress**: Wear pants and long sleeves outdoors; light-colored and loose-fitting clothing is advisable.
3. **DEET**: Use insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin and clothing while adhering to label instructions.
4. **Drain**: Eliminate standing water around homes as it serves as breeding sites for mosquitoes.
For more information on staying safe from mosquitoes visit austintexas.gov/mosquito or refer to APH’s Mosquito Toolkit for prevention materials.
