PHOENIX (AP) - Arizona health workers say the number of West Nile Virus cases has already surpassed last year and could increase through the fall.
News organizations reported Monday that the Arizona Department of Health has confirmed 27 West Nile cases in 2019 as of July 5, all in Maricopa County where Phoenix is located.
The department says there were 24 cases in 2018.
Officials expect mosquitoes carrying the virus to persist through November.
Maricopa County Department of Public Health officials say the increase could result in the highest number of West Nile cases in five years.
Experts say 20% of people bitten by mosquitoes carrying West Nile develop flu-like symptoms, while fewer cases result in paralysis or death.
Officials say there is no cure.
