Vector-borne diseases remain a serious public health concern in Texas. The state consistently ranks among the top five nationwide for West Nile virus cases, with DSHS reporting hundreds of human cases in peak years. Kissing bugs (Triatoma species) capable of transmitting Chagas disease are found in at least 28 Texas counties. Meanwhile, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes — vectors for dengue, Zika, and chikungunya — maintain year-round populations along the Gulf Coast. We monitor DSHS surveillance data, CDC MMWR reports, and county-level mosquito testing results to deliver timely alerts.
Texas reported 410 West Nile virus cases in 2023 alone, more than any other state. Chagas disease, once considered rare in the U.S., now has an estimated 300,000+ cases nationwide with significant concentration in southern border states. Pesticide misapplication incidents — including off-label use and contaminated products — lead to EPA emergency advisories that directly affect Texas consumers. The lag between a disease outbreak and public awareness can be weeks, during which preventable exposures occur. Our coverage bridges the gap between agency surveillance data and actionable information for Texas residents, drawing from DSHS weekly reports, EPA recall notices, and published epidemiological studies.
14 articles in this category
With Memorial Day marking the unofficial start of summer, Texas health officials urge residents to take mosquito prevention seriously as West Nile season intensifies.
DSHS confirms the first human case of West Nile virus in Texas this year, a neuroinvasive illness in Harris County. Health officials urge mosquito precautions as warmer months begin.
Four county judges from the Rio Grande Valley held an unprecedented joint press conference to address the growing New World screwworm threat approaching the Texas-Mexico border.
CDC Health Alert Network warns of multi-country hantavirus outbreak linked to cruise ship. Texas named as geographic hotspot for rodent-borne virus.
Federal health officials report tick-bite emergency room visits are hitting historic highs across most U.S. regions, with Texas residents facing heightened exposure risks.
Brazoria County health officials announce first West Nile virus positive mosquito traps of 2026 season in Manvel and Sweeny, triggering targeted spraying operations.
Tarrant County Public Health confirms first West Nile Virus positive mosquito samples of 2026 in Fort Worth and Grand Prairie as health officials ramp up surveillance ahead of World Cup.
Dallas County health officials are ramping up mosquito testing for chikungunya, dengue, and Zika as millions of international visitors arrive for FIFA World Cup 2026.
Austin and Travis County health officials launch mosquito season awareness campaign, warning residents about West Nile virus risks and promoting the Four Ds prevention strategy.