Pinal County health officials urge public to guard against mosquitoes

The Pinal County Division of Environmental Health (PCDEH) announced today that a mosquito sample collected on July 12 in western Pinal County has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). This is the first mosquito sample for 2006 to test positive for WNV in Pinal County, and Health Officials are encouraging everyone to take precautions against the disease. NO human cases have been reported.

West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of a mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected with the virus when they feed on infected birds. West Nile virus can cause severe illness in people and horses, although not everyone infected will develop symptoms. People of all ages can be affected; however, the elderly may be more prone to central nervous system infection.

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:

Avoid outside activity between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.

If you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are active, wear lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs, and use an insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow the directions on the label.

Make sure doors and windows have tight fitting screens and remain closed. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes in them.

Drain all standing water where mosquitoes can breed. This includes buckets, tires, cans, jars, bottles and other containers that can hold water.

Change water in flowerpots, birdbaths and pet watering bowls located outdoors at least twice per week.

The county has a mosquito hotline and a web page. If you would like information on mosquito prevention and control, please call: (866) 287-0209, ext. 6200, or visit the WNV web page.

For information or questions concerning the health effects of WNV, please call the Pinal County Public Health Information Hotline: (866) 763-7252.