Photo - File, Valley Publishing

Responding to our earlier story of a Vector Control employee indicating that the West Nile Virus had been detected in mosquitoes trapped in the Upper Valley in May, Dr. Jorge Magaña, Director of the El Paso City/County Health Department indicated that there was a “misunderstanding”.

Magaña added that the Health Department has been installing traps to catch mosquitoes. They are sent to Austin. All of the batches have been returned as “negative’ for West Nile Virus.

West Nile Virus is likely to be a part of the El Paso/Souther New Mexico/Cd. Juarez area from now on. However, Dr. Magaña points out that there can “always be mosquitoes,... and if they are not carrying the virus and do not bite animals that carry the virus... There is no possibility of transmission to humans. The mosquito remains only a nuisance.” However, constant vigilance and eradication of breeding grounds is necessary to reduce the possibility of transmission.

Mosquitoes can become infrected by birds and other animals such as horses. The Health Department does test dead birds for possible infection of West NIle Virus, however, hawks are the ones that yield the best information as they are not likely to have died by other means.

Dr. Magaña indicates that when there is a “confirmation of West Nile Virus in a mosquito, there is an intensification of the eradication of the mosquito in the area from where it was trapped. Doctors and hospitals are also notified of the presence of West Nile Virus.”

The time between the first annual detection of West Nile Virus in mosquitoes and the first reported case of human infection can vary. Dr. Magaña points out that many people are infected but have such mild symptoms that they don’t bother going to the doctor. Therefore, there may be many more infected individuals than those reported by the Health Department.

Because of the proximity of Upper Valley residents to the Rio Grande, irrigation canals and irrigated fields along with the rain puddles; Dr. Magaña has indicated that the Upper Valley Beacon will be notified immediately in order to alert residents to the increased danger of the virus.

One is never sure when West Nile Virus is present in the area. It may take time for mosquitoes to be trapped that have the virus. Also, many individuals don’t report their infection because it is so mild. But, it is necessary to be on alert. People with decreased immune function are at higher risk of developing the complications.

It is important to point out, that prevention is the best cure. Dr. Magaña indicates that “DEET insect repellent is essential” for the protection. Remember, All it takes is one bite.

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Editor, Upper Valley Beacon

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