The number of victims that have fallen to the West Nile Virus has now risen to five. The virus killed two residents in the 75225 zip code this week. The Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) did not provide any additional information for medical confidentiality and personal privacy reasons.

Health experts with the Centers for Disease Control are considering this to be the worst mosquito season in decades and experts are saying that it is just now reaching the peak of West Nile season. As always, Dallas officials warn residents to take precaution to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and being infected with the virus.

Residents should make every effort to stay indoors at dawn, dusk and in the early morning, which is when mosquitoes are most active. Despite the summer heat, wearing long sleeves and long pants will lower the amount of skin showing that mosquitoes can attack and always spray clothing with bug repellent containing DEET. Finally, check all screens in the home for tears or holes and replace the damaged ones.