Tarrant County Confirms First Positive Human West Nile Virus Case Of 2026

July 24, 2026 – (Tarrant County, TX) –Tarrant County Public Health (TCPH) is reporting the first case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in the County of the 2026 season.

The case involves the neuroinvasive form of the disease. To protect the patient’s privacy, no additional details are being released.

The neuroinvasive form of West Nile Virus is more severe and may present with fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, or paralysis. This form can be life-threatening.

West Nile fever is considered the milder form of the virus. Common symptoms include headache, fever, muscle and joint aches, nausea, and fatigue. Most individuals recover without medical treatment, though symptoms can persist for several weeks.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, only about 20% of those infected with WNV will develop symptoms, and serious cases remain rare.

As of today, Tarrant County Public Health has identified 86 mosquito pools that have tested positive for West Nile virus. Mosquito surveillance and testing will continue throughout the season, which runs from April through mid-November.

Last year, the first human case was reported on June 25, and a total of 17 cases were recorded over the course of the 2025 season.

TCPH urges all residents to take the following precautions to reduce their risk of infection: routinely dump standing water on your property, use EPA-approved insect repellents, and wear loose-fitting long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk.

For more information about West Nile Virus, visit the Be Mosquito Free webpage. 

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