Mosquito sample in Arlington tests positive for West Nile Virus

Tarrant County health officials have confirmed a mosquito sample tested positive for the West Nile Virus.

The positive mosquito sample was collected from the City of Arlington, according to Tarrant County Public Health officials, making it the first of the 2016 season.

"This is an unusually early positive sample," said TCPH Associate Director Anita Kurian.  "Typically, the first positive occurs in June."

To date, 637 mosquito samples have been tested at TCPH's North Texas Regional Laboratory since seasonal surveillance began on April 1.
 
Health officials remind residents of the importance of taking personal protective measures to safeguard against West Nile Virus. Residents should routinely dump standing water on their property, use repellent and dress for dusk to dawn.
 
No human cases have been reported in 2016.