ADHS
News Release:
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| Release: |
Mosquitoes test positive for West Nile Virus in Pima County -- Residents urged to “Fight the Bite” |
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Date: |
April 26, 2005 |
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| Contact: |
Patti Woodcock, Public Information Officer, Pima County: (520)
740-3700
Mary Ehlert, Public Information Officer, ADHS: (602) 542-1094 |
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TUCSON — The Arizona Department of Health Services announced today that a mosquito sample collected by Pima County Vector Control Officers in Tucson has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). This is the first positive test result for Pima County in 2005. Both Maricopa and Pinal counties already reported positive findings in March 2005.
“West Nile Virus is present in these three counties and most likely in many other areas of throughout the state,” David Engelthaler, State Epidemiologist, said. “All Arizona residents need to ‘Fight the Bite’ and take the proper precautions to prevent mosquito breeding and mosquito bites.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans and animals through mosquito bites. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. The virus is not passed person to person. Horses can also become infected with WNV.
The virus affects the central nervous system. Some persons infected with WNV will develop severe illness (high fever, neck stiffness, tremors, and paralysis) while others may experience no symptoms or flu-like symptoms such as headache, fever, body aches, swollen glands and muscle weakness.
“Arizonans should continue to enjoy our beautiful outdoors,” Engelthaler said. “But it is important we all take steps to protect ourselves and our families from mosquitoes.”
There are several measures each individual can take to prevent mosquito breeding that may lead to West Nile Virus infection:
- Eliminate mosquito-breeding sites around the home by removing standing water in potted plants, tires and other containers.
- Repair window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of the home.
- Avoid outdoor activity between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- When outdoors wear long sleeves and long pants to prevent mosquito bites.
- When outdoors wear a mosquito repellant containing DEET or other effective ingredients such as Picaridin, KBR 3023 or Bayrepel (follow label instructions, especially for use on children).
- Report dead birds to local authorities.
The Pima County Health Department has activated its West Nile Virus information line. To report mosquito complaints or recently dead birds (no pigeons, doves or baby birds), call 520-740-3191. Citizens may also report homes occupied or unoccupied with neglected swimming pools, ponds or other potential mosquito breeding sites. Pima County Health Department staff will be available on the phone line from Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
For more information call 520-740-3191 or visit www.pimahealth.org or
www.azdhs.gov .
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