As temperatures finally begin to ease, Arizona Department of Health Services Director Susan Gerard is urging residents to continue preventive measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes that may carry West Nile Virus.
“As people spend more time outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk, there is a greater potential for mosquito bites,” Gerard said. "Late summer and early fall is the time of year when mosquito-borne disease risk is usually at its highest level, especially in the warmer counties."
State health officials reported 13 new West Nile virus cases this week, bringing the 2005 total to 63 known cases in humans. Two deaths have been reported in Maricopa County. The age range of those afflicted is eight months to 87 years.
West Nile activity is reflected in the number of mosquito specimens across Arizona that have tested positive for West Nile. To date, 329 mosquito specimens have tested positive this year, including 116 in Maricopa County. In addition, five new equine cases were reported this week,
bringing to 29 the number of horses infected in 2005.
The best way to protect yourself from mosquito-borne illness is to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home and neighborhood and to take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as:
- Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed. Check for items outside the home that collect water, such as cans, bottles, jars, buckets, old tires, drums and other containers.
- Change water in flower vases, birdbaths, planters and animal watering pans at least twice a week.
- Repair leaky pipes and outside faucets, and move air conditioner drain hoses frequently.
- Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes when going outside at night by using insect repellent. Wear lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs.
The state also has established a web site,
www.westnileaz.com, and a toll-free number, 1-800-314-9243, (Metro Phoenix: 602-364-4500), to provide information about West Nile Virus.
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