First West Nile Virus Mosquito Sample of 2025 Confirmed in Harris County: Evening Spray Operations Begin
Harris County Public Health (HCPH) has confirmed the season's first mosquito sample positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in northwest Harris County. The infected mosquito, a Culex quinquefasciatus, was collected during routine surveillance by the Mosquito and Vector Control Division (MVCD), a program designed to detect mosquito-borne threats before they impact residents.
In direct response, MVCD will begin evening mosquito spray operations starting tonight at dusk, targeting the affected area and its surroundings. These operations aim to significantly reduce mosquito populations and minimize the risk of WNV transmission to humans.
“Our mosquito surveillance program is essential to identifying the presence of mosquito-carrying viruses in our community and directing our response efforts to help protect the public,” said Dr. Courtney Standlee, Interim MVCD Director.
Mosquito Season Heats Up in Harris County
Although mosquitoes persist throughout the year in the Gulf Coast region, their activity increases significantly from May through October. Harris County is home to 56 mosquito species, but only a handful—such as Culex, Aedes aegypti, and Aedes albopictus—are known to transmit dangerous viruses including West Nile, Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika.
West Nile virus has been present in the area since 2002 and is now considered endemic. While most individuals infected with WNV exhibit no symptoms, some may develop mild flu-like conditions. In rare cases, however, the illness can escalate into severe neurological complications, including encephalitis, stiff neck, disorientation, and even death.
Anyone experiencing symptoms or who suspects exposure should consult their healthcare provider promptly.
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West Nile Virus Prevention: Know the “3 Ts”
To empower residents with mosquito prevention strategies, HCPH is promoting the “3 Ts” public health campaign:
TIP
- Drain standing water from pet bowls, flowerpots, buckets, tires, and birdbaths every 3–5 days.
- Empty water from outdoor containers after rainstorms.
TOSS
- Discard unused or trash items that can collect stagnant water.
- Clean gutters and keep outdoor bins closed.
- Never sweep leaves or clippings into storm drains, which can clog systems and create mosquito breeding grounds.
TAKE ACTION
- Use EPA-registered insect repellents and follow label directions.
- Avoid applying repellents on infants under 2 months or using oil of lemon eucalyptus on children under 3 years.
- Dress in long sleeves, pants, and socks when outside.
- Apply larvicides to water sources that cannot be removed and will not be used for drinking—available at most hardware stores.
- Fix leaky faucets and install tight-fitting screens on doors and windows to prevent mosquito entry.
“West Nile virus has been in our area since 2002. As we head into the summer months, we remind our community members to enjoy the outdoors but remember to protect themselves and their families from mosquito-borne illnesses,” Dr. Standlee added.
Community Vigilance Is Key
With mosquito season in full swing and temperatures rising across Greater Houston, Harris County officials urge the public to remain vigilant and proactive in their personal mosquito prevention efforts. HCPH continues to monitor mosquito activity county-wide and will adjust its response as needed based on new findings.
For more tips on mosquito control, disease symptoms, and live updates on spray operations, visit hcphtx.org/preventthebite.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
