Sixth West Nile Death in Dallas County

A sixth victim of the West Nile virus has been confirmed by Dallas County Health and Human Services officials.

DCHHS tells NBC 5 a patient that lived in zip code 75062 was diagnosed with West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease and died after contracting the virus.

For privacy reasons, health officials do not provide additional information on the identity of victims.

A total of six Dallas County residents have died after contracting the virus. In 2006, Dallas County reported four deaths, making 2012 a record year.

The other zip codes that contained reported deaths include two victims in 75225, and one victim in 75204, 75205, and 75050 each.

There are 123 reported human cases of West Nile virus in Dallas County as of Friday afternoon.

To report or inquire about mosquito activity in the Dallas County area, contact 214-819-2115 or visit the DallasCounty.org West Nile virus web page.

Get tips on symptoms of West Nile virus and West Nile virus prevention for Tarrant, Dallas, Denton, Collin and Parker counties here.

West Nile Virus Facts

Most people bitten by a West Nile virus-infected mosquito will not show any symptoms. Symptoms, if they appear, are fever, headache, nausea, body aches, swollen lymph nodes and skin rashes.

Fewer than 1 percent of those infected with West Nile virus experience the serious form of the illness. Serious symptoms include high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors or convulsions, vision loss, muscle weakness and numbness or paralysis.

Both Dallas and Richardson are urging residents to:

  • Drain standing water around their homes to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
  • Dress in pants and long sleeves when outside, but avoid becoming too hot.
  • Apply an insect repellent that contains DEET to exposed skin and to clothing when outdoors.
  • Stay indoors at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
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