West Nile Virus Infects 3 in Allen

Eight in Collin County now infected with West Nile virus

Three people in Allen have contracted West Nile virus, according to Collin County Health Care Services.

The city did not say in which zip codes the infected people reside.

CCHC said they plan to continue treating mosquitoes with larvicide in stagnant swimming pools and selected creeks and detention ponds. To date, CCHC said 24 stagnant swimming pools have been treated and over 20 public areas have been inspected and treated.

“We encourage residents to be vigilant in eliminating all outdoor sources of standing water and to take safety precautions when outside early morning and at dusk when mosquitos are most active," said Lee Battle, assistant director of community development in Collin County.

Citizens can report areas of stagnant water to code enforcement by calling 214-509-4160.

Information regarding West Nile Virus and mosquito control precautions is available on the Collin County Health Care Services web page.

West Nile 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.
Contact Us