West Nile Virus Claims First Victim in Travis County

A Travis County resident has died from West Nile virus, marking the first reported death from the virus in the county this year. Austin Public Health has identified 26 positive pools of mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus in various zip codes. Authorities are urging people to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites, including draining standing water, avoiding outdoor activities during dusk and dawn, wearing protective clothing, and using insect repellent. West Nile virus can cause symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash, with older individuals and those with weakened immune systems at greater risk of developing serious illness.