Wichita Falls Confirms First West Nile Virus Case

Look, I know it seems like we hear this every year, but it's still important to know so you can protect your family against mosquitoes.

Health officials in Wichita Falls have confirmed the first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in Wichita County for 2025. This is also the first case of the year reported in the area, and one of 51 cases across Texas so far.

First West Nile Virus case reported in Wichita Falls

The Wichita Falls–Wichita County Public Health District says they’ve already found 21 mosquito samples in the county that tested positive for West Nile this season. Amy Fagan, the district’s Director of Health, says the city’s mosquito control team keeps watch on mosquito populations, using traps, spraying, and other methods to keep numbers down.

To make things a little worse, a mosquito in Wichita Falls also tested positive for another virus called Saint Louis Encephalitis (SLE). It was found near the end of Russell Drive, and this is the first time since October 2023 that SLE has been detected in the area.

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City officials are reminding everyone to protect themselves by following the “Four D’s”:

• Dump/Drain – Get rid of standing water around your home. That’s where mosquitoes lay eggs.

• Deet – Use bug spray that contains DEET or another EPA-approved repellent.

• Dress – Wear long sleeves and pants, especially when outside for sports or yard work.

• Dusk/Dawn (and All Day) – Mosquitoes are most active early in the morning and in the evening, so try to limit time outdoors then.

For a more in-depth look at how you can you can keep your property mosquito-free with the dump and drain method listed above, check out the interview below with officials from the health district that was released a few years ago by the City of Wichita Falls Public Information Department

Check out the video below: