West Nile Virus Claims a Life in Lubbock

LUBBOCK, TX — The City of Lubbock has confirmed its first human death from the West Nile virus (WNV) in 2024. This tragic event follows a rise in symptomatic cases throughout the city. The first positive mosquito sample carrying WNV in Lubbock was collected on June 24, 2024, and since then, concerns have mounted as mosquito activity escalates due to recent rainfall and continued warm weather.

Public health officials are urging residents to take precautions to limit exposure to mosquitoes, which remain a significant threat to public health. “We are facing increased mosquito activity, and it’s critical for everyone to protect themselves,” said a Lubbock Public Health spokesperson. “West Nile virus can be dangerous, particularly for older adults and those with weakened immune systems.”

West Nile virus was first identified in 1937 in a woman from the West Nile district of Uganda. It was later found in birds in the Nile delta region in 1953, with crows and other species being most affected. Before 1997, WNV was not considered dangerous to birds, but a virulent strain in Israel led to mass bird deaths from encephalitis and paralysis. Since then, human infections have been reported globally for over 50 years. The virus spread significantly in 1999 when a strain circulating in Israel and Tunisia was introduced into New York, leading to a widespread outbreak across the United States, and highlighting the global threat posed by the importation of vector-borne diseases.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, typically from the Culex pipiens species, known as the house mosquito. These mosquitoes acquire the virus by feeding on infected birds. While most human cases are asymptomatic, about 1 in 5 individuals will develop symptoms. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in rare cases, the virus can lead to life-threatening neurological complications.

Common symptoms of WNV include fever, nausea, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. These symptoms can last from a few days to weeks, with most people recovering without long-term effects. However, about 1% of infections result in severe illness, such as meningitis or encephalitis, which can cause permanent neurological damage or death. Older adults and people with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness.

The largest outbreaks of WNV have occurred in the USA, Greece, Israel, Romania, and Russia, with outbreak sites often aligning with major bird migratory routes. Historically, the virus was widespread in Africa, parts of Europe, the Middle East, West Asia, and Australia. However, since its introduction to the U.S. in 1999, the virus has spread and is now established throughout North America, from Canada to Venezuela.

The Lubbock Public Health Department recommends several measures to minimize the risk of infection. Residents should use EPA-registered insect repellents when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Wearing long-sleeved clothing and long pants can also reduce skin exposure. Additionally, ensuring that homes are mosquito-proof by using air conditioning and checking that window and door screens are intact is crucial. Residents should also remove standing water around their homes, which serves as breeding sites for mosquitoes.

If you or someone you know experiences symptoms consistent with West Nile virus, it is important to seek medical attention. While there is no specific treatment or vaccine for WNV, healthcare providers can offer supportive care, including fluids, pain relievers, and medications to reduce fever and inflammation.

In 2023, Texas reported 163 human cases of West Nile virus, with over 500 confirmed cases across the state in the past five years. Public health experts warn that these figures likely underrepresent the true number of cases, as many individuals infected with WNV show no symptoms or experience mild symptoms that are mistaken for other illnesses. As mosquito season continues into the fall, Texans are urged to remain vigilant.

For more information on how to protect yourself and your family from West Nile virus, visit the CDC website here.