Montgomery County woman dies from West Nile virus, health officials confirm
Brittany Taylor, Senior Digital Content Producer
Published: August 21, 2026 at 12:42 PM
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas – A Montgomery County woman in her 90s has died from West Nile virus, marking the county’s first confirmed death from the mosquito-borne illness in 2026, health officials said
The Montgomery County Public Health Department said the Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed the death. The woman lived in the 77304 ZIP code and was diagnosed with West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease
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Mosquito season typically runs from May through the end of October, according to health officials
West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes. People typically develop symptoms two to 14 days after being bitten
About 80% of people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, there is no way to know in advance who will develop a more serious illness
Milder symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Joint pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
Most people with mild illness recover completely, although fatigue and weakness can sometimes last for weeks or months
Less than 1% of people infected develop serious neurological illness. Symptoms can include high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, seizures and paralysis. Severe cases can result in death, and some neurological effects may be permanent
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There are currently no specific medicines or vaccines available to treat West Nile virus. People with severe illness may need to be hospitalized for supportive care
Health officials recommend taking steps to prevent mosquito bites, including:
- Using an EPA-registered insect repellent
- Wearing long sleeves and pants when spending time outdoors
- Removing standing water around your home
- Regularly emptying containers that can collect water, where mosquitoes can lay eggs
Montgomery County Mosquito Control and The Woodlands Township conduct mosquito trapping and surveillance throughout the area. Mosquitoes are identified and tested for diseases including West Nile virus
When positive mosquito samples are found, Montgomery County Mosquito Control surveys the area for breeding sites on public property and conducts treatment activities
Residents who are concerned about mosquito problems can contact Montgomery County Mosquito Control at 281-364-4203 for help identifying mosquito
Anyone who develops symptoms that could be associated with West Nile virus should seek medical attention
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