West Nile Virus Claims First Victim in Lubbock

The City of Lubbock in Texas has reported its first human death from West Nile virus (WNV) this year. The resident became ill in June and subsequently died, with WNV being a contributing factor. Texas has reported 42 human cases and seven deaths from WNV in the 2022 season. Symptoms of WNV include fever, nausea, headache, and muscle aches, and severe illness or death can occur in rare cases. Public health officials emphasize the importance of taking precautions to prevent mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.