Dallas County reports second death in West Nile of 2024

A second person in Dallas County has died after contracting West Nile virus in 2024, Dallas County Health and Human Services said Wednesday.

According to a DCHHS news release, the man lived in the 75080 ZIP code, which includes parts of Far North Dallas and Richardson. The patient had underlying health conditions and was diagnosed with West Nile neuroinvasive disease.

The man’s identity has not been released. He is the second person to die from West Nile virus in Dallas County, following the death of a woman in the 75230 ZIP code in August.

Dr. Philip Huang, DCHHS director, said in the news release that mosquito activity is decreasing, but it is still important to take preventive measures to prevent mosquito bites.

The notice recommended residents apply insect repellent with EPA-approved ingredients, wear long, loose, light-colored clothing to cover exposed skin, drain standing water in the home and workplace to prevent mosquitoes from breeding, and the Reduce outdoor activities during peak mosquito periods.