Pinal County confirms first case of West Nile Virus

CREATED Aug. 7, 2012

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Web Producer: Taylor Avey
 
FLORENCE, Ariz., (KGUN9-TV) - Pinal County's first human case of West Nile Virus for this year has been confirmed. 
 
A 30-year-old female from northern Florence, Ariz., tested positive for the virus, but she is reportedly in good condition, according to Pinal County Health Official, Heather Murphy.  
 
This brings the count of human cases of West Nile Virus to seven for the year.
 
Six Maricopa County residents were identified previously, according to Murphy.  
 
Pinal County Public Health officials expect to confirm more cases of the virus this year, but it could take some time.
 
Symptoms of the virus are often mild and go unnoticed.
 
Severe symptoms can develop, however, resulting in permanent neurological damage and even death. 
 
Health officials urge Pinal County residents to take precautions to protect against contracting the virus, which involve avoiding outside activity around sundown, covering arms and legs with protective clothing, removing standing water around the home and making sure doors and windows are closed tightly.