Pinal County sees first West Nile deaths

Pinal County has recorded its first fatalities this year from West Nile virus.

There have been two cases, with both victims over 80 years of age with comorbidities, according to a county Public Health Department announcement on Wednesday.

The county does not disclose specific locations of the deaths as a matter of policy.

2021 has proved to be the harshest West Nile virus (WNV) year in Pinal County’s history. Public health officials have confirmed 46 cases so far, with another 61 potential cases under investigation. Other counties have seen a similar uptick in cases after a heavy monsoon season that created favorable conditions for mosquitoes and the spread of the virus.

Arizona has an above-average incidence of neuro-invasive disease caused by West Nile virus at greater than 0.75 cases per 100,000 population.

Even with temperatures falling and monsoon rains gone, health risks remain.

“This has been an unusually challenging West Nile virus season,” said Chris Reimus, the county’s division manager for environmental health. “Even though it is cooling down and the season is coming to an end, it is important that people remain vigilant in avoiding mosquitoes and preventing mosquito breeding.”

West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States. It is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Cases occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall.

The virus can cause a mild illness that lasts for a few days or a more serious condition that affects the central nervous system. The risk of developing a more serious disease increases with age, compromised immune status and presence of comorbidities.

Pinal County Health recommends that anyone with recent mosquito exposure and symptoms – including fever, fatigue, joint pain, stiff neck, or altered mental state – consult their healthcare provider.