West Nile Virus has been detected in both San Antonio and Dallas, should parents be worried?
West Nile Virus has recently made headlines in Texas, with confirmed activity in both San Antonio and Dallas. In San Antonio, a mosquito on the North Side tested positive, prompting Metro Health to schedule mosquito spraying in the area on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 3 a.m. Meanwhile, mosquito samples in Dallas have also tested positive, and weather permitting, crews will spray affected areas overnight from Saturday, August 3 through Sunday, August 4, between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. Residents are advised to stay indoors during spraying. Dallas County has also reported its first human case of the season, highlighting the importance of mosquito prevention and awareness, especially for families seeking guidance from a kids urgent care provider.
What is West Nile Virus, and how does it affect kids?
West Nile Virus is spread by infected mosquitoes. Most people (and kids!) who get it experience no symptoms at all, or may feel like they have a mild cold or flu. Symptoms usually show up within 3–14 days of a bite.
Common symptoms in kids can include:
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Fever
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Headache
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Body aches
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Skin rash
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Swollen lymph nodes
How do kids catch West Nile Virus?
It’s not spread from person to person, only through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become carriers by feeding on infected birds.
How is it treated?
There’s no specific treatment or antiviral medication for West Nile Virus. If your child is diagnosed, treatment usually involves managing symptoms, such as fluids, fever reducers, and rest. In very rare severe cases, hospitalization and supportive care may be needed.
How can I protect my child from mosquito bites?
Here are some simple but effective tips:
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Use insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin (no more than 30% for kids)
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Dress your child in long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially around dawn or dusk
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Avoid standing water (like in birdbaths, toys, buckets, and plant trays) empty or cover them weekly
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Keep windows and doors sealed with screens
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Use air conditioning when possible to keep mosquitoes out
Safe repellent tips for little ones:
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For infants older than 2 months, DEET products under 30% are generally safe
- Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol (PMD) on children younger than 3 years old
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Never apply repellent to children’s hands, eyes, or mouths
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Spray on your hands first, then apply to your child
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Avoid combo sunscreen + repellent products, they often lead to over-application of DEET
At Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care, your child’s health and safety come first. With 19 locations across San Antonio, Dallas, and the surrounding areas, our kids urgent care team is here to provide quick care, no appointment needed. Whether it’s a bug bite, fever, or flu-like symptoms, we’re ready to help. Find a clinic near you and hold your spot online today!
