A seemingly innocuous mosquito bite claimed the life of a beloved senior from Columbus High School on Oct. 2. Alex Medrano, at just 17 years old, tragically succumbed to West Nile Virus. His untimely death deeply impacted countless individuals, including fellow students and the broader community, who mourned the loss of one of their own— an astonishing outcome stemming from a simple mosquito bite.
Deaths due to West Nile Virus are uncommon. The majority of people bitten by mosquitoes carrying the virus do not exhibit symptoms; approximately 20 percent may experience symptoms such as fever, muscle and joint aches, headaches, nausea, and fatigue. According to the Centers for Disease Control, less than one percent of those infected experience severe complications, as the virus can attack the nervous system and lead to death.
“Unfortunately, many mosquitos in Texas are capable of spreading diseases, such as West Nile and dengue. These diseases are often mild, but some people will develop severe illness,” said DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford, MD, MPH. “So, it is important for Texans to know how to protect themselves against mosquito bites.”
The Texas Health and Human Services (THHS) provides guidelines to help protect individuals and families from mosquito bites effectively. To minimize risks, it is recommended to: - Clear water-holding containers: At least weekly, empty trash cans, buckets, used tires, pots, plant saucers, and any other items capable of collecting water.
- Keep gutters clean: Make sure gutters are free from debris to avoid water buildup.
- Refresh water regularly: Empty standing water and replace pet dishes daily. Wading pools and bird baths should have their water changed several times a week, and rain barrels must be covered with screens.
- Apply insecticides: Treat the areas around both front and back doors with residual insecticides.
- Wear protective gear: Everyone should wear long sleeves and pants, and use repellent that contains DEET.
These preventive measures are crucial, especially considering THHS statistics that indicate 154 cases of West Nile disease were reported in Texas last year, leading to 13 fatalities. The first case of the virus in 2024 has already been reported in Montgomery County, with additional cases noted in Brazos, Walker, and Galveston counties. Colorado County has also been added to the list of affected areas.
One simple mosquito bite.
