CEDAR PARK, Texas (KXAN) — An expanded trapping site at Cedar Park has yielded a new sampling of mosquitoes that have tested positive for the West Nile virus.
This latest test is part of Cedar Park’s participation in the Williamson County and Cities Health District’s mosquito management program. The test was performed in a Texas Department of State Health Services lab in Austin.
Williamson County has not seen a human case of West Nile since 2016.
Multiple traps have been set up by the Health District at various locations throughout Cedar Park. The species that tested positive is known as the culex quinquefasciatus, or southern house mosquito. This species as a flight range of one mile.
Last year, Texas reported 135 cases of West Nile illnesses and six people died.
Here’s how you can help keep West Nile at bay:
- Drain standing water and treat any that can’t be drained
- Defend yourself by using insect repellant
- Dress in long sleeves and pants outdoors