West Nile virus cases continue to rise in the Houston area. 
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- There are several more human cases of West Nile virus in the Houston area. The city of Houston Monday afternoon reported seven new human case of the virus. That brings the total in the city to 38 with three deaths.
Here are the latest cases:
32. 55-74 year old Male in southwest Houston 33. 25-34 year old Male in southeast Houston 34. 25-34 year old Male in southwest Houston 35. 85-94 year old Female in southeast Houston 36. 85-94 year old Male in southwest Houston 37. 25-34 year old Female in southeast Houston 38. 35-44 year old Female in northwest Houston
Harris County has 16 cases. Fort Bend County reported a seventh overall case. The latest is a 45-54 year old man who lives in Sugar Land.
Texas is having its worst ever outbreak of West Nile virus with 47 deaths, which is about half of all the West Nile deaths in the country this year.
Overall, at least 63 human cases have been confirmed across the ABC13 viewing area with four deaths.
As for other counties in our area as of last Friday, Montgomery County has reported four cases with no deaths. Wharton County has had one case with one death. Liberty County has had one case with zero deaths. Galveston County, Brazoria County and Waller County have all had zero cases thus far.
This year the Centers for Disease Control is reporting a record number of deaths and infections linked to West Nile. There have been human cases in 44 states, but the virus has hit Texas the hardest with more than a thousand infections and at least 40 deaths.
Mosquito-proof your property
HCPHES continues to encourage residents to eliminate mosquito breeding habitats around their property. Remove or empty all outside containers that may hold water such as flowerpots, tires and toys. Bird baths and pet water bowls should be changed at least twice a week. Clean out gutters and make sure windows and doors have proper screening. Do not "feed" the storm drains. Sweep up lawn clippings, leaves and tree limbs from sidewalks and driveways and dispose of them properly.
Prevent mosquito breeding in boats Cover your boat and store it in a covered place. Drain any standing water and make sure the bilge pump is working.Turn over canoes, kayaks and small boats to store upside down.
Personal protection
Historically, in Harris County, July through September is the peak timeframe for disease transmission to humans. To reduce the likelihood of being bitten by mosquitoes, practice personal protective measures. When outdoors, use an insect repellent containing the active ingredient DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 and apply as directed on the label. If possible, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
For additional information and/or maps of West Nile Virus activity in Harris County, visit www.hcphes.org.
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