Sugar Land confirms presence of West Nile virus

SUGAR LAND, TX (KTRK) -- The city of Sugar Land says mosquitos trapped there have tested positive for the West Nile virus.

The virus was found in mosquito traps located in the Sugar Land Business Park and the Sugar Creek subdivision. The mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile Tuesday.

Paul Williams works across the street from one of the traps from which some of the mosquitos were collected. He calls the discovery worrisome, telling us, "It's been horrible, it's been terrible. My kids have been covered with mosquitos."

Some schools in Fort Bend ISD have limited outdoor activities.

The city says it has increased mosquito spraying to twice per week.

Dr. Joe Anzaldua, the city's medical director and health authority, urges residents to take precautions to reduce West Nile exposure.

"Residents should use insect repellent whenever they are outdoors and avoid going outside at dusk and dawn," said Anzaldua. "People over 50 years old and those with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill if infected with the virus. If people have symptoms that cause them concern, they should contact their healthcare provider immediately."

Symptoms may include a stiff neck, vision problems, body tremors, mental confusion, memory loss and seizures. The milder form of the illness is West Nile Fever. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle and bone aches, nausea and drowsiness.

Nearby cities and counties are also struggling with the increase in mosquito population. Bob Haenel, mayor of Fairchilds, sent a letter to his county commissioner recently, writing "These monsters make Dracula look like a wimp."