The two newest cases reported Tuesday are a southeast Houston man between the ages of 55 and 74, and a woman between 55 and 74 years old from northwest Houston.
That makes 20 total cases in the city of Houston. Three people have died from the illness.
On Monday, a woman between 25 and 34 years old and a man between 55 and 74 years old were added to the list.
Harris County has reported six cases with no deaths, as of Friday.
Overall, at least 32 human cases have been confirmed across the ABC13 viewing area with four deaths.
As for other counties in our area, Fort Bend County has reported two cases of West Nile virus with zero deaths and Montgomery County has reported four cases with no deaths. Wharton County has had one case with one death. Liberty County has had one case with zero deaths. Galveston County, Brazoria County and Waller County have all had zero cases thus far.
According to the State Department of Health, there have been at least 24 West Nile deaths in Texas this year, with at least 640 people contracting the disease. Fifty-seven counties in Texas have reported West Nile cases this year.
Mosquito-proof your property
HCPHES continues to encourage residents to eliminate mosquito breeding habitats around their property.
- Remove or empty all outside containers that may hold water such as flowerpots, tires and toys.
- Bird baths and pet water bowls should be changed at least twice a week.
- Clean out gutters and make sure windows and doors have proper screening.
- Do not "feed" the storm drains. Sweep up lawn clippings, leaves and tree limbs from sidewalks and driveways and dispose of them properly.
Prevent mosquito breeding in boats
- Cover your boat and store it in a covered place.
- Drain any standing water and make sure the bilge pump is working.
- Turn over canoes, kayaks and small boats to store upside down.
Personal protection
Historically, in Harris County, July through September is the peak timeframe for disease transmission to humans. To reduce the likelihood of being bitten by mosquitoes, practice personal protective measures.
- When outdoors, use an insect repellent containing the active ingredient DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 and apply as directed on the label.
- If possible, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
For additional information and/or maps of West Nile Virus activity in Harris County, visit www.hcphes.org.
