Texas has become the epicenter of the West Nile Epidemic. Find out what preventative measures you can take to help keep yourself protected.

Officials have declared a state of emergency in Dallas. About 1/3 of all West Nile cases in the nation have been diagnosed in South Dallas county.

We're on track to have our worst year ever of West Nile cases. The cause could be our unusually warm winter, followed by a rainy spring. It's perfect breeding conditions for mosquitoes.

Experts from the CDC say that only about 1 in every 150 cases will contract an illness, but to be the one would be no walk in the park.

So to protect yourself, you can take these preventative measures:

-Avoid areas with standing water and change standing water around your house, like in birdbaths. Also, check your gutters for blockages that could also cause standing water for mosquitoes to breed in.

-Believe it or not, wear lighter shades of clothes. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark clothing.

-Always wear your mosquito spray!

Keep your family safe this summer here in Texas if you choose to travel to the Dallas Area. No need for any alarm, but it's just good policy to be aware.

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