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Recent rains across the Hill Country have created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, prompting health officials to encourage area residents to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile virus as summer approaches.
While the latest advisory was issued by Austin Public Health for Austin and Travis County, Hays County officials have also dealt with confirmed West Nile virus activity in recent mosquito seasons, including positive mosquito trap tests in areas near Dripping Springs and Wimberley last year.
Mosquito season in Central Texas typically runs from May through November, especially during warmer and wetter months when mosquitoes breed more rapidly.
According to Austin Public Health, mosquitoes can carry diseases including West Nile virus, Zika, dengue fever, encephalitis and canine heartworm.
“While we’re all getting ready to enjoy the summer, let’s be sure to bring mosquito repellent and appropriate clothing anytime we plan on spending time outdoors,” Austin Public Health Environmental Health Services Division Chief Marcel Elizondo said in the advisory. “We've consistently seen West Nile virus for years, and this year shouldn’t be any different.”
In 2025, Austin-Travis County reported 41 mosquito pools that tested positive for West Nile virus, along with five preliminary human cases pending final confirmation by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Hays County officials also reported multiple positive mosquito traps during the 2024 and 2025 mosquito seasons, including detections in unincorporated areas near Dripping Springs and Wimberley.
Health officials recommend residents follow the “Four Ds” to reduce mosquito exposure:
• Dusk and dawn — Mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus are most active during early morning and evening hours.
• Dress — Wear long sleeves, pants and loose-fitting light-colored clothing outdoors.
• DEET — Use insect repellents containing DEET or other EPA-approved ingredients.
• Drain — Eliminate standing water around homes, including flowerpots, clogged gutters, birdbaths, old tires and outdoor containers where mosquitoes can breed.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most people infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms, though some may develop fever, headaches, body aches or rash. Severe illness is more likely among older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Hays County operates a mosquito surveillance program that monitors mosquito activity and tests traps for mosquito-borne illnesses throughout the county.
