9OYS Health Watch

Pima County confirms first 2011 cases of West Nile Virus

CREATED Sep. 8, 2011

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Web Producer: Ina Ronquillo

PIMA COUNTY, Ariz. (KGUN9-TV) - The Pima County Health Department is reporting that at least three residents in Pima County have tested positive for West Nile Virus in the past week.  Other possible cases are under investigation.

West Nile Virus can be transmitted to animals and humans through the bite of a mosquito that previously bitten a West Nile Virus infected bird.

Symptoms of West Nile Virus usually begin 3 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and may include fever, headache, tiredness, body aches, a skin rash on the trunk of the body, and/or swelling of the lymph nodes.

Some people who are people infected with West Nile Virus never experience any symptoms or have a mild illness that goes away on its own.

One out of every 150 people who become ill with West Nile Virus will develop more serious diseases such as meningitis or encephalitis, which may require hospitalization.

The Pima County Health Department offers the following tips in regards to West Nile Virus:

  • Limit time outdoors from dusk until dawn. Mosquitoes are most active during these times. Wear long sleeve shirts and pants when possible.
  • Use mosquito repellents that contain DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
  • Check the screening on your windows and doors for holes.
  • Check your yard: Pour out or remove standing water in flowerpot saucers, gutters, puddles, buckets and watering cans. Check gardening equipment and children's outdoor toys for standing water. Cover water harvesting containers. Throw out unneeded items that collect water. Cover trash cans and recycling containers. Change out water two to three times a week in bird baths, pet water dishes, and livestock troughs.

For more information about West Nile Virus, contact the Disease Information Line at (520) 243-7800 and visit http://www.pimahealth.org/disease/westnile.asp