Fort Bend County Health & Human Services (FBCHHS) Epidemiology Division has confirmed the county's first human case of Neuroinvasive West Nile virus (WNV) for 2026. The individual resides in ZIP code 77478. No additional information will be released to protect the patient's privacy.

FBCHHS urges residents to be vigilant in protecting against mosquito bites. As of today, FBCHHS Environmental Health Division’s Vector Control Program has identified 36 mosquito samples that tested positive for West Nile virus in Fort Bend County.

"This confirmed human case underscores the importance of preventing mosquito bites, as mosquitoes can spread diseases such as West Nile virus and dengue," said Dr. Letosha Gale-Lowe, Director and Local Health Authority for Fort Bend County Health & Human Services. "The best way to protect yourself and your family is to use insect repellent, wear protective clothing outdoors, eliminate standing water around your home and avoid being outdoors during dusk and dawn, when mosquitos are most active."

West Nile virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with the virus experience no symptoms. About one in five people develop a fever with symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. In rare cases, the virus can cause serious neurological illness, particularly in adults over age 60 and people with certain underlying medical conditions.

Fort Bend County's Mosquito and Vector Control Program conducts year-round mosquito surveillance throughout the county to monitor mosquito populations and test for West Nile virus activity. Positive mosquito samples help guide targeted mosquito control efforts, including surveillance and treatment where appropriate.

Protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites by following the 4 “Ds” of mosquito safety:

· Avoid Dusk and Dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

· Drain standing water around your property.

· Dress in long sleeves and long pants when feasible.

· Defend yourself by using repellent containing DEET or other CDC-approved mosquito repellents.


For more information on mosquito control in Fort Bend County, please visit: https://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/government/departments/health-and-human-services/environmental-health/mosquito-control

About Fort Bend County Health and Human Services

Fort Bend County Health & Human Services (FBCHHS) is committed to promoting and protecting the health and well-being of Fort Bend County residents. Through disease prevention and intervention, public health emergency preparedness and response, community engagement and efforts to ensure the equitable provision of basic human needs, FBCHHS works to build healthier communities. FBCHHS is

proud to be accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB), demonstrating its commitment to meeting national standards for excellence in public health practice and continuous quality improvement. Our vision is healthy neighbors living, learning, working and playing together in vibrant, thriving communities. Learn more at www.fbchhs.org.