Fort Bend County Declares Mosquito Crisis; What Katy Families Need to Know
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KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
July 1, 2026
By Natalie Cook Clark
After much rainfall, Fort Bend County Health officials report “extraordinary mosquito populations.” Health officials share what families should know especially ahead of the holiday weekend.
The Katy area is a tri-county city meaning that families should pay attention to what is occurring in Fort Bend County, Harris County, and Waller County. Recently, Fort Bend County officials raised an alarm on what they report to be “extraordinary mosquito populations.”
Fort Bend County declared a public health emergency after the area received much rainfall that resulted in standing water and a surge in mosquitoes, including ones testing positive for West Nile Virus.
“Mosquitoes are known vectors of numerous diseases affecting humans and animals, including but not limited to West Nile Virus, St. Louis Encephalitis, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, and other mosquito-borne illnesses that pose a threat to public health and safety,” states Fort Bend County Judge Daniel Wong in a press release.
The county has begun aerial spraying for mosquitos to try and manage the surge.
Experts with Methodist hospital caution residents against mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile Virus, which can result in severe complications especially in people who are immunocompromised or over 60 years old.
Signs to watch for include fever, headache and rash. Anyone experiencing concerning symptoms after a mosquito bite should seek medical care, experts advise.
According to Methodist Hospital, residents should take proper precautions against mosquitos when outdoors.
BEST WAYS TO PREVENT MOSQUITOES AT HOME
Eliminate standing water at your house: Mosquitoes lay eggs in even small amounts of water found in planters, toys, gutters and outdoor furniture.
Use effective repellents: Products with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus offer the most reliable protection.
Skip ineffective solutions: Citronella candles and bug zappers provide little meaningful protection against bites.
Wear protective clothing: long sleeves, pants and permethrin-treated clothing can add an extra layer of defense.
Experts like Dr. Olivia Tomasco says that not all mosquito repellents are created equal and that residents should turn to science-based ingredients like DEET or picaridin.
“Eliminating mosquito breeding grounds and using effective repellents can dramatically reduce your risk,” says Dr. Tomasco. “Taking these simple steps can help keep you and your family safe, even during a surge like this.”
While Fort Bend County is currently reporting two confirmed cases of West Nile Virus and Harris County has reported one, officials say that many mosquitos have tested positive in pools around the greater Katy area that has led to the public health concern.
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