Dallas Mosquitoes Continue Carrying Dengue, West Nile Viruses

The Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) recently reported additional Dengue and West Nile virus (WNV) cases, as Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are currently circulating in the area.

As of Week #34, ending August 26, 2023, DCHHS reported that one hundred eighty-eight mosquito traps tested positive for WNV.

And 15 human WNV cases and one human death have been reported in 2023.

Additionally, four travel-related Dengue cases have been reported this year in Dallas.

"It's important for people to be aware that there are many diseases transmitted by mosquitoes found in Texas," said Texas DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford, MD, MPH, in a July 2023 press release. 

"Most of these diseases cause mild illness, but in rare instances, diseases like dengue or Zika can cause severe illness."

To service residents, DCHHS provides free or low-cost public health and social services to low-income residents of Dallas County.

Philip Huang, MD, MPH, DCHHS's Director, says Dallas County has been at the forefront of the local response to major public health issues and emergencies, including Dengue, Mpox, West Nile, and Zika viruses.

Throughout the U.S., West Nile virus has been detected in 36 states, mainly in the southwest.

And the state of Florida has reported both travel-related and locally acquired dengue cases in 2023.