Brazoria County health officials are urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites after mosquito samples collected in Pearland tested positive for West Nile virus.
According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, mosquito samples collected by the Brazoria County Mosquito Control District on June 10 tested positive for the virus. The positive samples were collected from traps located near the intersections of Cripple Creek Drive and Wood Creek Drive and Magnolia Estates Boulevard and Pine Mill Court.
The affected areas were treated by truck-mounted mosquito spraying on June 11, and county officials plan to re-trap and monitor the locations next week, weather permitting.
No human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Brazoria County this year. However, health officials said recent heavy rainfall across the region has created favorable breeding conditions for mosquitoes, increasing the importance of preventive measures.
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Most people who contract the virus experience no symptoms, but about one in five may develop fever, headache, body aches, fatigue or nausea. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe neurological illness, particularly among older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Brazoria County Mosquito Control conducts year-round surveillance by trapping and testing mosquitoes throughout the county. When positive samples are identified, crews increase monitoring efforts and conduct targeted spraying in affected areas.
Pearland residents are encouraged to eliminate standing water around their homes, where mosquitoes can breed in as little as a few days. Common sources include flowerpots, bird baths, pet bowls, buckets, clogged gutters and children’s toys left outdoors.
Health officials also recommend wearing long sleeves and pants during peak mosquito activity at dawn and dusk and using insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin or other EPA-approved ingredients.
Residents can report mosquito concerns and monitor treatment activity through the Brazoria County Mosquito Control District. Additional information about West Nile virus prevention is available through the Texas Department of State Health Services and the City of Pearland.
